Overview
- Coach DeMeco Ryans said the Texans expect to open the 21-day practice window for wide receiver Tank Dell, a step that signals progress in his rehab but does not guarantee game availability.
- The window allows Dell to practice with the team for up to 21 days from his first session, after which the Texans must either activate him to the 53-man roster or place him on season-ending injured reserve.
- Dell has not played since suffering a major knee injury in December 2024, followed by months of rehab, limited training-camp work and a minor setback that kept him out of preseason action.
- The Texans plan to open identical practice windows for rookie Kayden McDonald and veteran tackle Braden Smith, creating multiple short-term evaluations that could change lineup plans.
- Dell is in the final year of his rookie contract, so the activation decision will affect Houston’s immediate receiving depth and Dell’s near-term career and earning opportunities as the team seeks more consistent offensive production.