Tank Dell just took a massive step towards getting back on the field, participating fully in Wednesday’s practice for the first time since December 21, 2024. That’s a huge deal for the Texans.
The Long Road Back to the Field
Man, it’s been a brutal grind for Dell to get to this point. That horrific knee injury he suffered against the Chiefs back in ’24 wasn’t just a minor setback, it sidelined him for *all* of the 2025 season and the entire start of this current one. Think about that: a whole year and then some. General Manager Nick Caserio even went on 95.7 The Fan, saying Dell was close, eyeing this week or next for a return, barring any setbacks. Well, that full practice participation, his first since the injury, says a whole lot. The Texans opened his 21-day return-to-practice window on October 5, so we’re right in the thick of it for him to get cleared.
What He Brings Back to the Offense
Let’s not forget what this dude can do when he’s healthy and firing on all cylinders. Dell, a third-round pick from 2023, absolutely balled out in his first 25 career games before that devastating injury. We’re talking a massive 98 receptions for 1,376 yards and 10 touchdowns. Those are serious, serious numbers! His potential return isn’t just a feel-good story; it could be a game-changer for the Texans’ offense, adding a serious weapon back into the mix.
The team has also been dealing with other bumps and bruises across the roster. They practiced without linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair (groin), safety Jalen Pitre (shoulder), offensive tackle Trent Brown (knee), and running back David Montgomery (groin). On top of that, guys like wide receiver Nico Collins (rest), safety Ja’Marcus Ingram (elbow), tight end Dalton Schultz (rest), defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (knee), defensive end Logan Hall (rest), linebacker Henry To’oTo’o (shoulder), and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (rest) were all limited. Linebacker Wade Woodaz (thumb) was a full participant, too, which is good news. But getting a playmaker of Dell’s caliber back healthy? That’s just a different kind of boost.
Dell’s return has been a long time coming. If he can stay healthy through this return-to-practice window and get back on the field, get ready for a significant injection of talent and production into that Texans’ offense. It’s almost time to see those 98 catches and 10 touchdowns in action again.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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