Tank Dell

The Texans head coach said WR Tank Dell will play Sunday for the first time in over two years, and that his speed is already stressing defenders in practice.

Reporter· Read on HoustonTexans.com (opens in a new tab)

Texans wide receiver Tank Dell will return to the field against the New York Giants on Sunday after a 22-month hiatus.

Injury / practice· DJ Bien-Aime· Read on ESPN Texans (opens in a new tab)

DeMeco Ryans can't wait to see Tank Dell back on the field

Reporter· Read on ESPN Texans (opens in a new tab)

Dell will be making his first appearance since Dec. 21, 2024, when he sustained a severe left knee injury that included a dislocated kneecap and damage to multiple ligaments. Through his first two seasons in the NFL, Dell had emerged as a key complementary option behind No. 1 wideout Nico Collins, but the Texans are likely tempering expectations for the 26-year-old coming off a nearly two-year layoff. Dell, who was cleared to resume practicing Oct. 7 and was a full participant throughout Week 6 prep, is expected to be in line for a light snap count in his 2026 debut.

Injury / practice

Currently in the midst of his second week of practicing with the Texans after having his 21-day evaluation window opened Oct. 7, Dell has taken a notable step forward in his recovery from a severe left knee injury by turning in back-to-back full sessions Wednesday and Thursday. Though the Texans won't bring him back from injured reserve for the London game, Dell stands a strong chance of being activated ahead of the team's Oct. 25 matchup with the Giants and seeing his first game action since December 2024 if he can continue to practice without restrictions next week.

Injury / practice

Last Wednesday, the Texans opened Dell's 21-day evaluation window, with the receiver proceeding to turn in two limited practices while sitting out another. He's now taken a step forward in his second week of practice, turning in a full session for the first time since he sustained a multi-ligament left knee injury back on Dec. 21, 2024. The Texans will likely want to see Dell turn in additional full practices before reinstating him from injured reserve, but he could have a shot at making his 2026 debut as soon as Sunday against the Jaguars in London if all goes well over the next few days. Once he's reinstated, Dell will be vying with the newly acquired Marvin Harrison as well as Kayshon Boutte, Xavier Hutchinson and Jaylin Noel for playing time behind No. 1 wideout Nico Collins.

Injury / practice