Houston Texans' Tank Dell Set to Return After 22-Month Absence

HOUSTON, TX — Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell is expected to return to action Sunday against the New York Giants after missing nearly two years because of a serious knee injury, head coach DeMeco Ryans announced Monday.

Dell has not played since December 2024, when he suffered multiple torn ligaments and a dislocated kneecap during Houston's Week 16 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

The injury sidelined Dell for the entire 2025 season and the first six games of the 2026 campaign.

"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."

Dell, selected in the 3rd round of the 2023 NFL draft, began the 2026 season on injured reserve after Houston finalized its 53-man roster.

Although he was not placed on the physically unable to perform list at the beginning of training camp, Dell participated primarily in individual drills as he continued recovering from the injury.

Dell's return became more likely after the Texans opened his practice window two weeks ago. He has since participated in practices without experiencing setbacks.

His return adds another receiving option for quarterback C.J. Stroud as Houston attempts to build momentum following consecutive victories.

The Texans' receiving corps includes Nico Collins, Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Kayshon Boutte.

Harrison recently joined Houston in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals and made his Texans debut Sunday against Jacksonville.

The Texans improved to 2-4 after defeating the AFC South-leading Jaguars 34-31 at Wembley Stadium in London.

Stroud threw for 312 yards and three touchdowns in the victory, while Ka'imi Fairbairn kicked a 49-yard field goal as time expired to secure the win.

Houston will host the New York Giants on Sunday before entering its bye week.