(This story was updated to add new information.)
The Houston Texans need more from second-year receiver Tank Dell if they plan on winning more than just the AFC South division title.
DeMeco Ryans knows this.
C.J. Stroud knows this.
Dell knows it, too. All three are equally responsible for his sophomore slump entering the regular season’s halfway point.
“I believe in Tank, believe he’ll be able to make some big-time explosive plays for us,” Ryans said in preparation for Sunday’s matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. “He just has to keep going and he will do that. I have all the faith in Tank.”
After securing the most touchdowns in franchise history for a rookie, Dell has been dormant in the passing game. Initially, Nico Collins’ immense production played a factor, but the top target has been on the injured reserve for two weeks.
Stefon Diggs has taken over as the new No. 1. Dell, who last season caught 47 passes for 709 yards and seven touchdowns, hasn’t taken over his promotion at the secondary option, recording just 20 catches for 194 yards and one touchdown.
Woulda been a lot cooler if Tank Dell caught this pic.twitter.com/j2wjEoIsFT
— Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) October 21, 2024
In Sunday’s loss against the Green Bay Packers, Dell didn’t record a reception. He was only targeted four times and dropped a pair of passes, including one on the opening drive that would have gone for a touchdown.
On third-and-15, Stroud tried to find Dell again, but the ball was out of bounds. Even if the former University of Houston star caught it, the Texans would have faced a fourth-and-long situation.
Stroud praised Dell for keeping a positive attitude despite his postgame frustrations. He admitted the play-calling the need to “get the rock” more early and often to Dell whenever he’s open.
“I am really proud of him how he approached today and how he approached yesterday having an off day and Monday after the game,” Stroud said Wednesday. “Just trying to get better in the weight room and just checking on him and making sure he is in high spirits and he does the same thing for me.”
Sunday could be a chance for Dell to break out. The Colts rank 27th in pass coverage, allowing 222.1 yards per game. They’ve also allowed 10 touchdowns while giving up a passer rating of 98.3.
CJ Stroud with an incredible answer about Tank Dell & his spirits after a tough Green Bay game pic.twitter.com/0tU6gyKWD3
— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) October 24, 2024
Much like Houston being down Collins, Indianapolis will be without top cover corner JuJu Brents. Diggs, who leads the team in reception, will draw a matchup against Jaylon Jones, while Dell should mirror former 49ers defensive back Samuel Womack.
Ryans isn’t pressuring Dell to deliver, but if there was a game to step up, Sunday would be a prime moment.
“With Tank, he just has to keep going,” Ryans said.
Kickoff at Lucas Oil Stadium is scheduled for noon CT.
