The long-awaited Tank Dell return is scheduled for Sunday in Houston. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said Dell will play against the New York Giants, marking the receiver’s first NFL game since December 2024.
Dell’s comeback follows an extensive recovery from a severe left knee injury. The Texans will host the Giants at noon Sunday, Oct. 25, at Reliant Stadium.
Tank Dell Completes a Long Recovery
Dell suffered the injury against the Kansas City Chiefs on Dec. 21, 2024. He dislocated his kneecap and damaged several ligaments and his meniscus.
The injury required surgery and kept Dell out for the entire 2025 season. Houston continued to support his rehabilitation without setting a firm return date.
Dell resumed limited football activities during the 2026 offseason. However, the Texans placed him on injured reserve before the regular season while he continued rebuilding strength and speed.
Houston opened Dell’s 21-day practice window on Oct. 7. He later became a full practice participant for the first time since the injury.
The Texans ruled him out of Sunday’s game in London. Houston defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 34-31, improving its record to 2-4.
Tank Dell Return Adds Another Target for Stroud
Dell established a productive connection with quarterback C.J. Stroud during their first two NFL seasons. The former University of Houston standout recorded 98 receptions for 1,376 yards and 10 touchdowns during that period.
As a rookie in 2023, Dell caught 47 passes for 709 yards and seven touchdowns in 11 games. A fractured fibula ended that season early.
Dell returned in 2024 and produced 51 catches for 667 yards and three touchdowns. His second season also ended prematurely because of the knee injury.
The Texans now have another experienced option for their passing game. Dell joins a receiver group featuring Nico Collins, Jaylin Noel and newly acquired Marvin Harrison Jr.
Houston has not announced Dell’s expected workload against New York. The team can manage his snaps as he adjusts to regular-season contact and game speed.
Texans Prepare for Giants at Home
The matchup against New York begins an important stretch for Houston. The Texans have a bye after Week 7 before visiting the Los Angeles Chargers on Nov. 8.
Dell’s speed and route-running previously allowed Houston to attack different areas of the field. His return could also create more opportunities for the team’s other receivers.
Still, Dell’s health remains the priority after nearly two years without regular-season action. His progress through full practices provided the final step toward receiving game clearance.
Houston Welcomes Dell Back
Sunday’s game will give Houston fans their first chance to see Dell in action since his lengthy rehabilitation began. It will also reunite Dell and Stroud in a regular-season game for the first time in 22 months.
The Texans and their supporters can celebrate an important milestone when Dell returns to the field. Houston residents can watch the Texans face the Giants at noon on FOX.