'My Favorite Player!' DeMeco Ryans Discusses Houston Texans' Rookie Tank Dell's Success
Houston Texans rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has burst onto the scene and stolen the hearts—and the attention—of the Houston faithful. However, he’s not the only rookie on his side of the ball making fans happy.
Third-round rookie receiver Tank Dell is the lightning inside the bottle that teams are looking for when evaluating playmakers. He’s fast, elusive, and crafty enough to make it count.
Despite his 5-10 frame, Dell is making plays in traffic and giving Stroud a trustworthy option when he’s forced out of structure. This was overwhelmingly evident against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 12, when he streaked upfield on a scramble drill, culminating in a diving touchdown grab.
Dell celebrates a first down against the Cardinals in Week 12.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
“It’s electric. He inspires everyone,” head coach DeMeco Ryans said on "Coffee With Coach." “With his playmaking ability, with his route running ability … he puts defenders in a blender.”
His ability to separate is part athleticism and part technique. ESPN’s receiver analytics, which uses tracking data to parse receivers’ skills into separation, catching, and after-the-catch prowess, agree. Through 11 weeks of NFL action, only five receivers boast a higher “open” score than Dell.
According to Ryans, it’s a product of precision and work ethic.
“He’s truly working on his game. He’s really detailed in his route-running ability, that’s the one thing that sets him apart. He’s very detailed in his approach, how he practices throughout the week.”
Getting open is nice, but it doesn’t mean much if his quarterback can’t hit him within the rhythm of the offense with consistency or find him when the bullets start flying. It’s safe to say there’s some chemistry with Stroud.
The rookie passer has amassed 2,962 yards, 17 touchdowns, and five interceptions through 10 games, fueling Houston’s 6-4 start to the season. Dell, despite missing some time, has been the recipient of over 22 percent of those passing yards, posting 42 catches for 659 yards and six scores. Simply put, the two have formed a dynamic duo.
“That vibe and connection that him and C.J. have. C.J. truly trusts Tank, that’s probably why he gives him a few more opportunities with the ball,” Ryans said. “But he comes down with those catches. C.J. knows that Tank is going to make those plays for him … he’s always open.”
The connection first proved to be dangerous in Week 3 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Upsetting the division favorite 37-17, Dell caught five-of-seven targets for 145 yards and a 68-yard score.
He’ll have the opportunity to do damage again on Sunday, this time with first place on the line. The Jaguars come to town with a one-game lead in the AFC South and the risk of getting swept by an up-and-coming Texans team.
If nothing else, Ryans is confident Dell can help Week 12 should provide some really good football.
“He’s a fun player to watch. Probably my favorite player. If I had to get a jersey, I’m probably getting a Tank Dell jersey.”
