Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell is making his return to the field during training camp this week after missing the 2025 season due to a serious knee injury. While the team is pleased to have him back, head coach DeMeco Ryans clarified that the wide receiver is currently operating on his own individual ramp-up schedule. The Texans, who were recently featured in our weekly top-5 NFL defensive line tiers, are prioritizing his health.
Expressing enthusiasm about Dell's return, Ryans noted that the player is eager to compete, describing him as a smart player. However, the coach emphasized the necessity of a gradual approach, stating, "We know how dynamic Tank was when he was out there, but again, he hasn't played ball over 2 years, so it's important for him to get those."
Dell previously enjoyed a breakout 2023 season, recording 709 receiving yards and seven touchdowns across 11 games. Given the significant time away from game action, Ryans explained that the current priority is to build up Dell’s fitness through as many football repetitions as possible.
Looking ahead, the Texans' coaching staff plans to evaluate Dell's progress after next week to determine a clearer timeline for his return to full team drills. Ryans remarked, "It's important for him to get all of those reps because he's missed so much time of playing football. My mind set is to get him as much football as possible and build him up until he's able to get into our team drills." Despite his return to practice, reports indicate that Dell’s slow progression means he is not expected to occupy a full-time role for the Texans during Week 1.
Dell hasn't played in the league since December 2024.Although Dell has been cleared to participate in the Texans' training camp this week, he is reportedly doing separate individual workouts.
He posted 667 yards with three touchdowns in 2024 before his injury.Also Read: "Highly doubt he’s anywhere near the same player": NFL fans react as Tank Dell pulls off "a miracle" getting cleared for camp after gruesome injuryAlso Read: Myles Garrett and Will Anderson Jr.
