Texans’ Tank Dell picked to be ‘under the radar’ star

Jul 21, 2023

If one were to ask Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, then Houston Texans rookie receiver Tank Dell has the makings to be a bright object in the night skies of the NFL.

Bregman isn't the only one to see the potential Dell possesses.

According to Tyler Sullivan from CBS Sports, Dell made his list as the candidate from the Texans who can be a star in 2023.

The Texans selected Dell in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Houston, and the wideout has reportedly been opening eyes throughout OTAs. He's been working with the second-team offense, but if he continues to shine, it wouldn't be surprising to see him push for some reps with the starters. Houston doesn't have an array of pass-catching talent on the roster, which makes Dell's ascent as a rookie even more plausible. During his final collegiate season, Dell hauled in 109 catches for 1,398 yards.

The consideration is interesting given the fact Dell has not played a down as a pro, and the Texans are still a roster with unknown veterans. While Houston fans are familiar with Nico Collins — and maybe some diehard Michigan fans — the rest of the football world is not. Collins is as much under the radar as Dell.

Nevertheless the 5-8, 165-pound wideout represents an opportunity for the Texans to infuse speed on the perimeter into their offense. Dell caught 109 passes for 1,398 yards and 17 touchdowns in his final season with the Houston Cougars. If Dell is able to generate a healthy fraction of that production as a rookie, it should get him out from under the radar — so long as the Texans are commensurately winning and recovering the rebuild.

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