December 3, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell (3) runs onto the field before the game against the Denver Broncos at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Stroud isn’t the only offensive player looking to avoid a sophomore slump. Dell, perhaps the NFL’s most surprising human highlight in 2023, must not only avoid falling behind Nico Collins and Diggs in the pecking order, but also show that he’s healthy.
The third-round pick from Houston was on pace to rush for over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns before breaking his leg against Denver in early December. He’s been working out since he was allowed to walk again and seems stronger than ever, but he’s also practicing against aerial or non-tackling defenders.
The defense can’t cover every Houston receiver, so coordinators must plan for every possible scenario. Diggs, who rushed for 1,000 yards six times, will need to be double-covered thanks to his consistent route running. Collins, who ran for nearly 1,300 total yards last season, can win at all three levels.
That leaves Dell as the middleman. He could slowly get back up to speed on Friday, but he could also prove why last season’s seven games were a preview of what’s to come in 2024 and beyond.
