RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesC.J Stroud gets his favorite target back as Tank Dell makes long-awaited return originally appeared on The Sporting News .
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The Houston Texans took another encouraging step toward the 2026 season on Wednesday as wide receiver Tank Dell made his long-awaited return to the practice field.
Although Dell participated only in a limited role, his appearance marked the first time he has taken part in any padded team practice since suffering a devastating knee injury late in the 2024 season. The speedy receiver looked comfortable during individual drills, hauling in passes from quarterback C.J. Stroud and running crisp routes at full speed before his workload was intentionally cut short.
For the Texans , seeing Dell back in football activities is another sign that one of the team’s most dynamic offensive weapons is steadily working his way toward a full return.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans stressed that the organization remains committed to a patient approach, prioritizing Dell’s long-term health over rushing him back into action.
“Tank is on the right plan,” Ryans said. “Nothing’s changed in his plan. We’re progressing him really well, and we expect him to continue to improve based on how he’s feeling.”
Ryans also made it clear there is no fixed timeline for Dell’s return to full-contact practice.
“There’s no set way of doing it,” Ryans explained. “It’ll be based on how he’s feeling. We’ll do the right thing by Tank and make sure we take care of him the right way so that when he gets back into team drills, he’s completely confident.”
That careful approach comes after Dell endured one of the most difficult injuries imaginable.
During Houston’s Week 16 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs in December 2024, Dell caught a touchdown pass from Stroud before teammate Jared Wayne accidentally collided with his leg, causing catastrophic damage to his knee. The injury included multiple torn ligaments, a dislocated kneecap, and a torn ACL.
Dell’s emotional return could change everything for Houston
Dell underwent surgery shortly after the injury to repair several damaged ligaments before having a second operation in March 2025 to reconstruct his ACL. The lengthy recovery process forced him to miss the entire 2025 campaign.
Despite the setback, Dell remained around the team throughout his rehabilitation, earning praise from coaches and teammates for his positive attitude and relentless work ethic.
His return to the practice field may only be one step in the recovery process, but it is an important one. With C.J. Stroud continuing to develop into one of the NFL’s top young quarterbacks, Dell’s speed and big-play ability could provide Houston’s offense with another explosive dimension once he is fully cleared.
For now, the Texans are celebrating progress instead of pushing the timetable. Wednesday’s practice wasn’t about statistics or highlights—it was about seeing Tank Dell back where he belongs.
If his recovery continues on its current path, Houston could soon welcome back one of the league’s most dangerous young receivers, giving the Texans another reason to believe their offense can be among the NFL’s best this season.
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