Tank Dell Injury: Texans QB CJ Stroud gets chocked up while providing update on teammate’s health

Despite the Houston Texans securing a 22-17 triumph over the Denver Broncos in Week 13, the elation was dampened by the season-ending leg injury suffered by rookie receiver Tank Dell. The hard-fought victory suddenly lost its luster as the team had to bid farewell to a pivotal weapon mid-season, instrumental in securing all seven wins.

The injury cast a shadow over the entire team, leaving rookie starter C.J. Stroud visibly disheartened. His emotional message echoed the collective sentiment, mourning the loss of a teammate who played a crucial role in their journey towards success.

Tank Dell out for the season after brutal injury

In a clash of AFC titans, Tank Dell took the field against the Denver Broncos despite battling a calf injury during the week. The rookie receiver aimed to play a pivotal role in this crucial matchup, showcasing his resilience. As his teammates celebrated a hard-fought victory, Dell’s fortunes took a cruel turn. According to the NY Post, during a 3-yard touchdown run by Dameon Pierce, Dell found himself entangled, resulting in a fractured fibula that will sideline him indefinitely.

The field, once a battleground, became a scene of distress as Dell lay writhing in pain, prompting immediate attention from trainers. Coach DeMeco Ryans, recognizing Dell’s spirited contributions to the team’s success, approached the injured player. Despite not discussing the specifics of Dell’s condition post-game, Ryan acknowledged the profound impact losing him early had on the team.

“To lose Tank there with a leg injury, it hurts our team because of what he means to our team, not only on the field but off the field. Tank always has a huge smile on his face, always full of energy, and it just really hurts losing Tank.”

Dell, a third-round pick from the University of Houston, had entered the game with a remarkable record, standing as the third rookie in NFL history with at least five catches and a TD reception in four consecutive games. His absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the Texans’ lineup, robbing them of a dynamic playmaker who had consistently delivered standout performances, including a career-best 149-yard display just two weeks prior.

CJ Stroud gets emotional while talking about Tank Dell’s injury

In the Texans’ journey from struggling to playoff contention, Tank Dell played a crucial role, showcasing elite-level performance since the season’s inception. Though his name might not shine as brightly as Stroud’s, Dell’s contributions were integral to many of their victories.

While embarking on his NFL journey with Dell, C.J. Stroud, who recently found himself challenged by Tom Brady, was clueless about how to convey his grief for his teammate. Dell had a towel covering his face as he was driven off the field, which seemingly disheartened the prospect of multiple record holder mostly as he felt the level of pain his teammate was undergoing.

“You see your brother putting in so much work and be so helpful. One thing about Tank is he’s very unselfish, and to see him go out, the game of football is tough, man. It’s tough,” Stroud said.

Players like Dell are like a blessing for the whole team, as he was instrumental for the Texans’ offensive lineup in all their wins. Hence, seeing him go down and leave the field with such a grueling injury is never an expected scenario for any of his teammates. In this case, Stroud, earning praise from LeBron James, discovered himself bewildered, having nothing but to pray for his return to being fully fit.

“It’s cold. It’s not easy. I got to be there for him … I can try to be positive about it, but it’s tough, man. I’m hurt. I can’t sugarcoat it. I love my brother to death and I’m praying for him and I’m here for him no matter what.”

The rookie receiver is tied for first among NFL rookies with seven touchdown receptions. Notably, it is a franchise rookie record. Throughout this season, he racked up 47 catches for 709 yards, both second on the team.

Without Dell, the Texans have to suit up for their Week 14 game against the New York Jets.  Do you think they can put forward another win in the upcoming contest?