The Houston Texans have been the focus of attention this offseason, particularly regarding their offense. While starting quarterback C.J. Stroud has garnered significant media coverage, questions also linger around the wide receiver position, especially concerning Tank Dell's readiness to play.
Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports that Dell is not expected to be ready for the team's first game. He began practicing in a limited capacity during the second week of training camp, participating mainly in individual drills and a few team drills. However, he has not practiced in front of the media for the past three days.
Although two league sources indicate that Dell has not experienced any setbacks, he is not yet able to practice consistently. It appears he will also miss the Texans' final preseason game, leaving only three weeks of practice before the season opener on September 13. Consequently, it seems unlikely that he will be available for that game.
With Dell's status uncertain, the Texans may have to adjust their roster strategy, potentially keeping seven wide receivers instead of the usual six. Jayden Higgins was initially projected to be the No. 2 receiver alongside Nico Collins, but his recent ACL injury has complicated that plan.
The Texans might look to Xavier Hutchinson, who has shown improvement and is in a contract year, or Jaylin Noel, who has demonstrated playmaking ability, as candidates to fill the void left by Higgins.
