C.J. Stroud sounds like a quarterback who knows help is on the way.
With the Texans sitting at 0-4 in 2026, Stroud offered a telling glimpse at what could be coming next for Houston’s offense: Tank Dell is getting closer to a return. Stroud didn’t give a firm timetable, but his words made it clear the team expects Dell back soon.
“The guys we have are great. KB [Kayshon Boutte] has done a great job.
He’s somebody I’m learning I can trust in 1 on 1 situations. Really good at tough catches.
Now we’re gonna be adding Tank, definitely be helpful these next couple weeks.”
That comment stood out for more than one reason. Stroud made sure to highlight the work of the receivers currently carrying the load, with Boutte drawing specific praise for earning trust in contested situations. But the bigger takeaway was the mention of Dell, which sounded like a strong sign that Houston is nearing the finish line on his recovery.
Dell has been working back from the serious leg injury he suffered during the 2024 season, and the Texans have felt his absence. His explosiveness and big-play ability were part of what made him such a dangerous complement to Nico Collins, and Houston has had to look for answers elsewhere in the passing game.
Boutte has been one of the players to step into a larger role, and Stroud’s remarks suggest he’s done enough to become a reliable option when the quarterback needs someone to win a tough one-on-one battle.
Still, Dell changes the picture in a way few others can. Even if he needs time to get fully back into game rhythm, just having him available would give the Texans another layer on offense. His speed, separation skills and familiarity with Stroud could help open things up for a unit that has struggled to consistently produce.
The timing matters, too. An 0-4 start leaves little room for patience, and Houston needs answers fast if it’s going to dig out of the hole it has created. Getting Dell back would at least give the Texans a real shot at adding some spark to an offense that has been searching for one.
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