There are a couple times during the NFL offseason that teams like to get extensions completed with players they want to keep around. First, at the start of the league year in March. Second, when players arrive for voluntary OTAs. Third, right before the season starts.
While the Cleveland Browns haven’t always fallen in line with one of those three times (Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller extensions for example), the extension given to WR Nico Collins from the Houston Texans could lead to other deals getting done around the league.
While the NFLPA might want to eliminate spring activities, the NFL loves the 12-month coverage required of their league from deals like this:
Breaking: The Texans have agreed to a contract extension with WR Nico Collins, per league sources.