The Houston Texans are fighting hard in the playoff race, but injuries have stopped them from performing even better. Some key players may be nearing a return, while others appear likely to be out for the season. Let’s take a look at the situations of running back Joe Mixon and wide receiver Tank Dell.
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Will Tank Dell Play This Season?
Tank Dell, in his first NFL season, impressed everyone by recording 47 catches for 709 yards and seven touchdowns. Even last year, he had 51 receptions for 667 yards and three TDs before getting injured against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Dell tore his ACL and MCL during that game, and the injury was severe enough to keep him out for almost a full year. Fans have been wondering whether he could finally return this season, especially after he was recently seen on the practice field.
However, there is still no clear update on whether he’s close to returning. Considering the seriousness of the injury, many believe Dell will likely rejoin his teammates next season instead of rushing back now.
Joe Mixon Clears the Air Over His Injury Status and Potential Return
Joe Mixon’s injury status has been one of the most discussed topics among Texans fans ever since he suffered a mysterious offseason foot injury. While there have been no official updates on when he could return, NFL insider Ian Rapoport recently reported that Mixon is unlikely to play this season.
“Sources: Texans RB Joe Mixon is not expected to play this season as he deals with a foot injury from the offseason. Mixon likely remains on the Physically Unable to Perform list through the season. Meanwhile, Houston moves forward with Nick Chubb and Woody Marks,” Rapoport wrote on X.
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The report quickly caught Mixon’s attention, and he didn’t seem happy about it, questioning how Rapoport knew more about him than he did.
“Now, I get everyone’s looking for splash news & clickbait… but I’m just curious, Ian how do you know more about me than me? 🤔” Mixon replied.
His reaction gave fans a bit of hope, as he denied the claims that he’s out for the season. However, until the Texans release an official update, nothing can be confirmed with certainty.
Dell and Mixon’s return would give the Texans a much-needed boost, as they are currently ranked No. 23 on PFSN’s Offense Impact. But for now, fans can only wait and see whether either of them will be back on the roster before the season ends.
Houston Texans’ Insights for Week 14
Team: The Texans’ current four-game winning streak pushed their record to 7-5. After Kansas City, Houston will have three home games against the Cardinals, the Raiders, and the Colts, with one road game in Week 17 against the Chargers.
QB: C.J. Stroud has a QBi of 75.5 (C) this season, up from 68.8 (D+) last season. As a rookie, he had 81.9 (B-) in 2023, which was fifth in the league.
Offense: Nico Collins has 72.3 receiving yards per game this season, down from the last two seasons when he had 85.3 yards per game.
Defense: Houston has allowed 19 points or fewer in nine games this season, but the Texans are only 6-3 in those games. There are five teams tied for second, with seven games in which they held their opponent under 20 points, and four of the five have at least six wins in those games.
Fantasy: Nico Collins now has at least 21.5 fantasy points in three of his last four. He’s seen 10+ targets in four of his last five.
