Let’s delve into the background of Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell, who made a notable comeback in Week 9.
The Houston Texans have ample reasons to be optimistic in 2023 after several disappointing years. They’ve seemingly found their new franchise quarterback in rookie C.J. Stroud, who has led them to a 4-4 start, placing them second in the AFC South.
However, it’s not just Stroud who has been making an impact; rookie wide receiver Nathaniel, nicknamed ‘Tank,’ Dell has also played a significant role this season.
But who exactly is Tank Dell? Let’s take a closer look.
Dell had a somewhat rocky start to his college football career. He initially committed to Florida International University but ended up playing his first college year at Alabama A&M, where he had 12 receptions in four games, including three touchdowns. He later transferred to Independence Community College in Kansas for a year.
At Independence, Dell’s performance improved, recording 52 receptions for 766 yards and eight touchdowns. He subsequently made another move to the University of Houston, where he truly showcased his abilities. In 2021, Dell had an impressive season with 90 receptions, 1,329 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns. His performance reached new heights in 2022, with 109 catches for 1,398 yards and an astonishing 17 touchdowns.
Following his standout tenure at the University of Houston, the Houston Texans selected Dell in the NFL draft, making him the ninth wide receiver chosen and the first player from the University of Houston to be drafted. He was picked in the third round, 69th overall.
Dell’s NFL journey got off to an exciting start with a notable performance in Week 2, where he caught 7 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown. He followed this with another impressive display in Week 3, amassing 5 receptions for 145 yards and another touchdown. However, the rookie faced a series of quiet weeks due to injury.
In Week 9, Dell had a resurgence as Stroud targeted him 11 times. He hauled in 6 receptions for 114 yards and two touchdowns, with the second touchdown serving as the game-winner against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This critical play saw Dell helping Stroud navigate the field in the final minute.
If Dell and Stroud can maintain the level of connection they displayed in Week 9, the Houston Texans appear to have a promising future ahead.
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