Houston Texans Rookie Receiver Tank Dell Suffers Ankle Injury

One of the breakout players in this year’s draft class, Houston Texans rookie receiver Tank Dell, was carted off the field during Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos. Dell suffered an ankle injury and is currently listed as questionable to return.

Dell sustained the injury while attempting to block for running back Dameon Pierce on a 3-yard touchdown play.

Despite being a third-round draft pick out of Houston, Dell has already made a significant impact in his rookie season. He is currently tied for the lead among rookies with seven receiving touchdowns and ranks second among rookies with 709 yards.

Impact of Dell’s Injury on the Texans

Dell has had an impressive season so far, becoming the first rookie in NFL history to record at least five catches, 50 receiving yards, and a touchdown in five consecutive games. He has been a favorite target for star rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, especially during the team’s late-game comebacks.

Dell and Stroud developed a friendship during the NFL Scouting Combine, and Dell even texted Stroud after he was drafted by the Texans, urging him to ensure that Houston also drafted Dell. Stroud assured Dell that he had his back.

Without Dell on the field, Stroud will heavily rely on third-year receiver Nico Collins, who had two impressive 50-plus-yard catches against the Broncos in the first half of Sunday’s game. Collins will need to step up in Dell’s absence.

– Nick Kosmider, Broncos beat writer

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(Photo: Carmen Mandato / Getty Images)