When a city school produces high class talent, naturally the reaction from sports fan in that city is that the local NFL team should take the popular college player.
Houston Cougars receiver Tank Dell figures to be that player as the Houston Texans complete their preparations for the 2023 NFL draft.
The Texans have a capable enough receiving corps presently with Nico Collins, Robert Woods, Noah Brown, Amari Rodgers, and John Metchie. The Texans’ goal is to provide as intact and diverse enough receiving corps for their new quarterback to throw to. However, Dell could provide value to the offense, even with his 5-8, 165-pound frame.
According to Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus, Dell has the makings to be a dangerous slot receiver.
Smaller players need to stand out with speed, body control and change of direction to make up for their lack of mass and strength. And Dell does that. He recorded 1,399 receiving yards with 17 receiving touchdowns, 31 explosive plays of 15-plus yards and 19 forced missed tackles in 2022. He can stop and start on a dime, and that will still give him the chance to be a difference-maker as a slot receiver in space.
The Texans are deploying a facsimile of the Kyle Shanahan offense with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who was the San Francisco 49ers’ passing game coordinator in 2022. One of the features of the Shanahan system is to put the ball in playmakers’ hands. If Dell can be a playmaker at the next level, then the Texans should consider adding such a piece.
Dell has made it known that he would not mind being a part of putting the Texans back together. Having players with an attitude committed to completing the rebuild is also what Houston could afford to have in the locker room during the first season with coach DeMeco Ryans.
