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News

Newer update on Tank Dell: Tank Dell injury update: Full practice, could return Week 6 vs. Jaguars

Tank Dell Nears Return As Texans Plan To Open 21-Day Practice Window

Houston plans to open Dell's practice window this week as he works back from a December 2024 knee injury.

By Cole Hartwell

Texans wide receiver Tank Dell is on the verge of returning to practice. Head coach DeMeco Ryans said Monday that the team expects to open Dell’s 21-day practice window this week, according to Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle. Dell has not played since tearing his ACL, MCL, and LCL and dislocating his knee in a Week 16 loss to the Chiefs on December 21, 2024.

What happened

Dell was placed on injured reserve in late August with a designation to return. He has missed 27 straight games, including playoffs, since the injury. The Texans’ bye is in Week 8, which could give Dell extra practice time before a potential return in Week 9. The team also plans to open practice windows for defensive tackle Kayden McDonald and right tackle Braden Smith.

Context

Dell, a 2023 third-round pick, quickly became a reliable target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. He caught 47 passes for 709 yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie, then had 51 receptions for 667 yards and three scores in 2024 before the injury. Houston’s offense has struggled without him: the Texans are 0-4, top wideout Nico Collins missed Weeks 2 and 3 with a hamstring strain, and Jayden Higgins is out for the season with an ACL tear.

What’s next

The 21-day window gives Houston three weeks to either activate Dell to the 53-man roster or keep him on injured reserve for the rest of the season. If activated, Dell could play as soon as Week 8 or Week 9. Dell is on track to become a free agent in the offseason.

🏈 Fantasy impact

Dell is worth adding in most leagues now, since he’s likely to be activated within the next three weeks. With Houston’s 0-4 record, the team may lean on its passing game, but Nico Collins’ presence caps Dell’s ceiling. Stash Dell if you have the roster spot, but don’t start him until he logs a full game. His return could also open things up for tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Joe Mixon as defenses adjust.

Quick answers

When will Tank Dell return to game action?

Week 9 might be a logical target for Dell's return since the Texans have a bye in Week 8.

What is Tank Dell's injury?

Dell tore his ACL, MCL, and LCL and dislocated his knee in December 2024.

Is Tank Dell a free agent after this season?

Yes, Dell is on track to become a free agent in the offseason.

Sources

  1. Player data (Sleeper)
  2. Texans Plan To Open 21-Day Practice Window For Tank Dell (Pro Football Rumors)

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