Texans WR Tank Dell Is Prepared To Recover From Injury More Quickly And Sharply…
Houston Texans rookie wide receiver, Tank Dell, had his promising debut season abruptly halted by a fibula injury suffered during a game against the Denver Broncos on Dec. 3.
However, undeterred by adversity, Dell has since poured his focus into a rigorous rehabilitation regimen, aiming for a swift recovery that will see him back on the field alongside his teammates for spring OTAs.
Working closely with his private coach, Delfonte Diamond, Dell engaged in drills that included plyometrics and stability exercises, demonstrating his commitment to not only regaining his previous form but surpassing it.
Diamond’s praise for Dell’s progress speaks volumes about the receiver’s dedication and work ethic. The anticipation surrounding Dell’s return is palpable, with expectations high for him to pick up right where he left off and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Reflecting on his rookie season, Dell remains optimistic, viewing his injury as a temporary setback and a test of his resilience. Despite his shortened debut, Dell made a lasting impression, forming a strong bond with C.J. Stroud and setting rookie franchise records, including touchdown catches previously held by Owen Daniels.
Dell told KPRC2, “I just feel that was a test run for me … I had a lot more to display, but God puts you through things for a reason. So I just kept my head up. I know the years to come are going to be special here. It’s going to be good.”
With his return imminent, there’s no doubt that Dell’s presence on the field will be felt, elevating the Texans’ offense and solidifying his place as a key contributor to the team’s success.
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Joe Mixon Gives High Praise To Offensive Rookie Of The Year
New Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon got a front-row seat watching C.J. Stroud slice and dice up the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in a 30-27 victory. Even he knew in the moment that Stroud, who played his college ball up the road at Ohio State in Columbis, was different. “C.J. is a phenomenal player. Obviously, he was the Rookie of the Year, and that ain’t by no fluke,” Mixon said during his first press conference as a member of the Texans. “I think that we have a great group of guys in this here locker room.”
Indeed Stroud had a promising supporting cast at receiver while setting the Texans’ rookie franchise record in passing yards. Third-year receiver Nico Collins became the third receiver in franchise history to finish with 1,200 receiving yards in a single season. Rookie Tank Dell totaled seven touchdowns, including the game-winning catch in Week 9’s victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with three seconds remaining to go along with 709 receiving yards. Tight end Dalton Schultz, who inked a one-year deal after five seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, finished second in catches (59) and third and receiving yards (635). But the run game was lackluster. Houston finished 23rd on the ground, even after a second-half surge behind Devin Singletary. Mixon, who was traded to the AFC South champions for a seventh-round pick, plans to be the solution in taking pressure off Stroud playing hero ball.
“We bought the city of Cincinnati, we got it back lit again, and I plan on bringing that same thing here,” Mixon said. “[Texan] fans, I’m sure — they got a taste of it last year, but I feel like with what we’ve got in the making, I think it’s going to be a great thing. Like I said, I’m just excited to be here, feel wanted, and I just can’t wait to make the most of my opportunity when my number is called.” Mixon is coming off another 1,000-yard campaign while averaging 4.3 yards per attempt. He scored nine touchdowns and posted 52 catches for 376 yards and three scores. At 27, Mixon also believes the best years are still ahead of him, even after seven seasons with the Bengals. In large part, it’s because of Stroud, who led the NFL in led the NFL in touchdown-to-interception ratio (23:5) and passing yards per game (273.9). He was a Pro Bowler and the catalyst behind the first winning season at NRG Stadium since 2019.
Mixon spent four seasons watching Joe Burrow transform from a breakout rookie to one of the league’s top passers. He expects to see the same with Stroud during his tenure in Houston, especially after signing a three-year, $27 million extension. “With the quarterback we’ve got in C.J., like I said, he’s phenomenal, and I know for a fact he’s going to make that next jump, and that’s in terms of them playoff wins,” said Mixon. “But, obviously, we take them one game at a time.”