Tank Dell Set for Texans Return Against Giants

Dell cleared to play after long layoff

Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell will play this Sunday against the New York Giants. Head coach DeMeco Ryans announced the decision on Monday, ending a 22 month absence for the wideout.

Dell has not played since December 2024. During a Week 16 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the 2023 third round pick suffered multiple torn ligaments and a dislocated kneecap. The severe knee injury kept him off the field for the entire 2025 season.

Working back to game speed

Houston placed Dell on injured reserve after setting the 53 man roster for the 2026 season. Dell avoided the physically unable to perform list to start training camp, but he only took part in individual drills. He participated in team drills on only two days during camp, with just one practice in pads on Aug. 10.

His practice window opened two weeks ago, and he has worked without any setbacks. Dell joins a Houston receiver group that features Nico Collins, Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Kayshon Boutte.

Houston is 2-4 on the season after picking up a win against the first place Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Sunday. Ryans said he is keeping expectations modest for Dell as he steps back onto the field.

"No huge expectations from what he needs to do," Ryans said. "I'm just going to be excited to see him just out there for the first time in over two years, just getting some game action. So, I'm just thankful and grateful for him to have this opportunity to return. I don't have any expectations. I'm just happy to see him out there, and that's the only thing that matters."

What it means for the next game

Dell gives Houston another option in the passing attack as the team prepares to host New York.

New York Giants at Houston Texans (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): Houston Texans win 78%, New York Giants win 22%; projected score Houston Texans 26, New York Giants 18. Our safest pick: Giants +17.