Tank Dell might not be back in 2025 as he recovers from a devastating knee injury, but that doesn’t mean the third-year Houston Texans receiver isn’t helping the team in other ways off the field.
Texans owner and CEO Cal McNair praised Dell for being an essential part of the team from the sidelines and supporting his teammates during training camp on the sidelines. The former third-round pick was seen at practice in front of fans on Saturday, interacting with the Houston faithful while signing autographs.
“He’s got an unbreakable spirit,” Cal McNair said. “It’s showing up in his rehab and we can’t wait to get him back here as soon as we can get him.”
Dell, who suffered a season-ending torn ACL, LCL and MCL, along with a dislocated knee, will start the year on the PUP list. According to KPRC2 Sports’ Aaron Wilson, the speedy receiver isn’t expected to be cleared for contact before the end of the regular season.
While he’s not expected to be clear, Texans general manager Nick Caserio hasn’t ruled him out for the season, though he also didn’t put a timetable on when he’ll be cleared for drills.
“Tank’s had a good attitude,” Caserio said. “Been in the building essentially every day. He is working really hard.”
DeMeco Ryans mentioned that Dell has been “crushing” the rehab process and has been in a great “headspace,” but also wouldn’t put a timeline on a recovery timeline.
“Whenever Tank is ready to go back, he’ll be back.,” Ryans said.
“I’m concerned about Tank as a young man, just getting back healthy, physically and mentally. When that time is set, he’ll be back for us.”
Dell, who underwent his latest surgery in March, was seen walking around without any noticeable limp. He’s yet to speak to the media, signs are pointing toward his role maybe expanding closer toward the season’s end.
The Texans return to training camp on Monday.