The Houston Texans are finding ways to win despite the absence of their franchise quarterback. Despite losing starter C.J. Stroud to a concussion earlier this month, the team has clawed its way to a 6-5 record and remains alive in the AFC playoff hunt. Backup quarterback Davis Mills has stepped up in a major way, leading Houston to three consecutive victories, including a stunning upset over the Buffalo Bills last Thursday.
While the passing attack has been efficient under Mills, another reinforcement could be on the horizon. Wide receiver Tank Dell might finally be working his way back into the mix.
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Tank Dell Nearing a Return From Significant Knee Injury
Optimism grew last week when Sam Warren of the Houston Chronicle shared a video clip on X showing Dell catching passes at practice. While the former third-round pick wasn’t running routes or pushing his movement too hard, getting back on the field represents a significant step forward.
The road to recovery has been a steep one. During a matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs last year, Dell sustained an injury severe enough that some observers questioned his future in the sport.
The receiver, who turned 26 last month, tore his left ACL and MCL while also dislocating his kneecap. This setback came after he had already suffered a fractured fibula in the same leg during his rookie campaign.
Adding a playmaker of Dell’s caliber to an offense already humming under Mills would provide a massive lift for the stretch run. However, hurdles remain. Next month marks one year since the injury, and Dell still isn’t participating in individual drills. It remains unclear if he can return for the 2025-26 campaign or if the team views him as a piece for 2026.
What Did Dell Show Before Getting Hurt?
When healthy, Dell established himself as a favorite target for Stroud. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, hauling in 47 passes for 709 yards and seven touchdowns. He followed that up with 51 receptions for 667 yards and three scores in his second season before the injury bug struck again.
The receiver room has evolved during his absence, though. The Texans invested two day-two draft picks this past spring in Iowa State wideouts Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. The rookie duo has combined for 507 yards and five touchdowns. Additionally, 2023 sixth-round pick Xavier Hutchinson has provided encouraging production.
Veterans Nico Collins and Christian Kirk, who signed this past offseason, currently headline the group. Even if Dell gets the green light to play, carving out a role in this crowded rotation might be a challenge.
Despite the recent winning streak, the unit still has room to improve. The Texans rank No. 22 in the league with a PFSN Offense Impact score of 71.3, sitting just ahead of the 3-8 Arizona Cardinals.