Texans Owner’s Positive Message on Tank Dell After WR’s Training Camp Surprise

During the Houston Texans’ first open practice camp, Dell Tank made his first public appearance since his December knee surgery, drawing loud cheers from the fans in attendance. He spent time interacting with former Texans great Andre Johnson, team owners Cal and Hannah McNair, and veteran Derek Stingley Sr., a rare sight for someone still on the PUP list.

Dell, 25, officially landed on the PUP list ahead of camp as he continues recovering from a catastrophic knee injury. Dell first fractured his fibula in Week 13 of the 2023 season but returned by Week 1 of 2024. Then, in Week 16 against the Kansas City Chiefs, he suffered a dislocated knee after a collision with teammate Jared Wayne. The injury involved a torn ACL, LCL, MCL, and damaged meniscus. As medical staff rushed him to the hospital, quarterback C.J. Stroud couldn’t contain his emotions. “It’s not easy to just let it go, especially—it’s my best friend,” Stroud said after the game. Dell has since undergone two surgeries and remains in a long rehabilitation process. Although he won’t be playing anytime soon, Tank Dell’s recovery status has naturally become a major point of discussion. 

Recently, while talking to the reporters, coach DeMeco Ryans said Dell was in a “really great headspace” and confirmed he’s been actively involved in team meetings. Meanwhile, Texans’ GM Nick Caserio emphasized Dell’s dedication during rehab and said the team isn’t rushing his return. “One day at a time,” he said. “If he’s ready to play, great. If he’s not, he’s not.” But the most uplifting comments came from the Texans’ owners, Cal and Hannah McNair, who shared their belief in Dell after attending the team’s first open practice.

During the team’s open practice, Cal McNair praised Tank Dell’s mindset: “His spirits are really good… he’s got an unbreakable spirit, and it’s showing up in his rehab. We can’t wait to get him back out here as soon as we can.” That message matters because Dell’s return remains a long one, and the McNairs’ public support emphasizes that his recovery is as much about morale and team connection as it is physical. Hannah McNair added,

“He’s just an incredible asset to the team. Even when he is injured, he’s still out here doing his part, lifting the team up. That’s the type of guy we want in this building.”, reflecting just how much the Texans value presence, even if it’s off the field. 

Earlier this summer, when C.J. Stroud posted a workout montage on Instagram, Dell reposted it with the message: “I’m right there with you all year long.” That support hasn’t wavered—but the Texans still had to address his absence on the field. Dell’s 2024 knee injury required two surgeries and is expected to sideline him through the 2025 season. In response, Houston brought in Jaylin Noel, Jayden Higgins, Christian Kirk, and Braxton Berrios to fill the gap. Whether they can match Dell’s production remains uncertain, but as he continues to rehab, his presence still looms large around the team during his recovery.