Overview
- Coach DeMeco Ryans said Monday the Texans expect to open the 21-day practice windows for Tank Dell, Braden Smith and Kayden McDonald, which begins the official period for each player to return to the 53-man roster.
- Once a player takes the first practice spot, the team has 21 days to either activate him or put him on season-ending injured reserve under NFL rules.
- Dell has not played since a severe knee injury in Week 16 of the 2024 season that included multiple torn ligaments and a dislocated kneecap, and he missed training camp time after a minor setback while rehabbing.
- The Texans will use the practice window to judge Dell’s game speed and fit in an inconsistent offense that has lacked steady production from its receiving corps.
- Dell is in the final year of his rookie contract, so the activation decision carries short-term roster consequences and immediate implications for his future earnings and playing opportunities.