Houston Texans fans would love nothing more than to see speedster wideout Tank Dell back in the lineup hauling in receptions from Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud by the time OTAs come to a close.
Based on the work regimen he’s undergone, that seems unlikely. Dell, who hasn’t played since December of 2024, is still working his way back after undergoing multiple surgeries on his lower body. Until he runs drills, everything surrounding Dell’s role moving forward remains a mystery.
The Texans planned for a potential long-term absence of Dell last offseason with the selections of Iowa State receiver Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel on Day 2 of the draft. Higgins quickly emerged as a solid No. 2 option in the passing game opposite Pro Bowler Nico Collins, while Noel saw most of his success in the return game on both kickoff and punts.
The Cyclone duo is a year wiser in Nick Caley’s offense. And with Dell sidelined, both could be called upon to be key weapons for C.J. Stroud in a prove-it year.
Through the early stages of camp, both Noel and Higgins have caughten the eye of head coach DeMeco Ryans.
“Higgins has done a really great job of taking advantage of the offseason, really coming back in shape. He’s looking bigger, stronger, faster, which is what you expect for a second-year player of his caliber,” Ryans said Thursday. “He’s definitely taking advantage of it. I’m really excited to see what it’s going to look like this season. I know he’s going to have a really good year based on how he looks right now. He’s in shape. He’s ready to roll.”
Higgins, the Texans’ top pick in the second round, finished with 41 catches for 525 yards and tied Collins for the team lead with six scores while averaging 12.8 yards per catch. Noel, who finished finshed with 292 receiving yards and a pair of scores, often came in late in games, but eventually carved out a role as a prominent No. 4 option.
“‘J-Noel’ has done a really great job as well, improving at his craft and how we’re able to move him around different areas. He’s doing a great job as a kick returner, punt returner, we’re emphasizing him on working on getting vertical,” Ryans said. “He’s doing a really great job of working on those things as well. So, both guys are taking the necessary steps to improve.”
The Texans return to practice for the second stage of OTAs on Tuesday.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans give praise to second-year WRs following strong offseasons
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
