The Houston Texans are navigating a challenging season, particularly with their passing game amid ongoing quarterback changes and shifts in depth. A focal point of interest is the potential return of wide receiver Tank Dell, whose progression has been hindered by significant lower-body injuries.
Dell was on track for a breakout season before suffering a devastating knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs, resulting in a torn ACL and MCL, along with a dislocated kneecap. This injury came after he had previously fractured his fibula in the same leg during his rookie campaign. His absence has left a noticeable gap in the Texans’ receiving corps, which has since adjusted to feature veterans like Nico Collins and Christian Kirk, alongside rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, and 2023 sixth-round pick Xavier Hutchinson.
As of mid-December, Dell has not yet resumed individual drills, although recent practice footage revealed him catching passes—an encouraging sign of progress. However, his full involvement in more complex training remains uncertain. The Texans are exercising caution, emphasizing Dell’s long-term health while also considering their immediate performance needs.
As the Texans approach the critical end of the season, the uncertainty surrounding Dell’s return weighs heavily on their strategy. The one-year mark post-injury recently passed, and while rehabilitation is ongoing, typical recovery timelines for an injury of this nature suggest that full clearance may require additional time for conditioning and functionality tests.
Dell had made a significant impact before his injuries, recording 47 receptions for 709 yards and seven touchdowns in his rookie year, followed by 51 catches for 667 yards and three touchdowns in his second season. Despite this setback, there remains hope that his eventual return could further bolster the team’s offensive capabilities, although a full comeback may not be expected until the 2026 season, barring any unforeseen breakthroughs in his recovery.
Houston’s organization must balance optimism for Dell’s future contributions with the realities of integrating him back into a now-stabilized receiving lineup, a decision that could shape their end-of-season game plans.