Houston Texans receiver Tank Dell had quickly developed impressive chemistry with quarterback C.J. Stroud since his rookie season. However, a devastating injury late in the 2024 campaign has kept him sidelined, and his absence was felt keenly during the Texans’ 0-3 start to the season.
Although Houston has rebounded to a 2-3 record, the wide receiver room has taken another hit, with Christian Kirk ruled out for Week 7 against the Seahawks. This has left fans wondering when or if Dell will return to the lineup in 2025.
What’s Tank Dell’s Injury?
Dell suffered a devastating leg injury during Houston’s Week 16 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, colliding with teammate Jared Wayne after securing a 30-yard touchdown. The result was a torn ACL, MCL, a dislocated kneecap, and meniscus damage.
It wasn’t just a torn ACL. Dell’s injury involved nearly every major ligament in the knee, making it one of the most severe cases in recent memory.
Dell reportedly underwent multiple surgeries, including a confirmed ACL repair in March 2025, following earlier procedures on his knee.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans described Dell as “in great spirits” during his spring rehabilitation but emphasized that the team would not rush his return. On Aug. 26, the Texans placed Dell on the reserve/PUP list, and the team has not provided a formal timetable for his return since.
Will Dell Return in 2025?
According to CBS Sports analyst Ross Tucker, Dell has made noticeable strides in his recovery. He was seen running sprints before the team’s Week 4 win over the Titans, signaling progress.
“We did see Tank Dell was out running sprints, which is encouraging,” Tucker said on the CBS broadcast in the first quarter on Sunday. “Man, they are a different offense when that young man is out there. The connection that young man has with C.J. Stroud and has going back to their rookie year is special.”
While this development offers hope to Texans fans, many analysts caution that Dell could still possibly miss the entire season. However, that remains speculation rather than confirmation.
According to SportsMedAnalytics, Dell’s multi-ligament injuries typically require a minimum of 10 to 12 months for basic recovery and 14 to 16 months for high-level football readiness, especially for players whose game is built on burst and change of direction.
Using the minimum 14-month recovery timeline, Dell would not be ready to return until February, effectively ending his 2025 season.
Dell and Stroud, both drafted in 2023, have already developed a strong on-field connection.
He recorded 47 receptions for 709 yards and seven touchdowns in his rookie season.
Before his injury last season, he had 51 catches for 667 yards and three touchdowns.
With Houston’s offense ranked 18th in PFSN’s Offensive Impact metric, the team has dearly missed his contributions as their WR2.