Tank Dell will play Sunday against the Giants in his first game in 22 months

Tank Dell is finally coming back.

The Houston Texans receiver will play Sunday against the New York Giants, coach DeMeco Ryans announced Monday. It will be his first game in 22 months.

Ryans said he is not putting any pressure on Dell. "No huge expectations from what he needs to do," he said. "I'm just going to be excited to see him just out there for the first time in over two years, just getting some game action."

"I'm just thankful and grateful for him to have this opportunity to return," Ryans added. "I'm just happy to see him out there and that's the only thing that matters."

A long road back

Dell has not played since the Texans' Week 16 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in December 2024. He tore multiple ligaments and dislocated his kneecap in that game. He missed the entire 2025 season.

The 2023 third-round pick opened this season on injured reserve when Houston trimmed its roster to 53 players. He was not on the physically unable to perform list when training camp began but he took part only in individual drills for most of camp.

He joined team drills on just two days that summer and only one of those was in pads, on Aug. 10. His practice window opened two weeks ago and he has practiced since then with no setbacks.

A crowded receiver room

Dell rejoins a group that includes Nico Collins, Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Kayshon Boutte.

The Texans are 2-4 but are coming off a division win in London on Sunday over the first-place Jacksonville Jaguars. Houston hosts the 3-2-1 Giants next.