Texans trade up to pick WR Tank Dell in 3rd round

The Houston Texans selected Houston wide receiver Tank Dell in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 69th overall.

He joins a wideout group that includes Nico Collins, Robert Woods, Noah Brown, and John Metchie.

Dell racked up 109 receptions, 1,398 yards, and 17 touchdowns en route to being named a first-team All-AAC selection in 2022. The 5-foot-8, 165-pound wideout is also a dynamic threat as a return specialist.

Dell is the Texans' third offensive selection of the 2023 rookie class, joining quarterback C.J. Stroud and center Juice Scruggs. Houston also drafted linebacker Will Anderson Jr.

Pre-draft profile

There's no other receiver prospect like Dell. His lack of size is undoubtedly going to be a red flag as he may be reduced to a receiver who requires manufactured touches. But even then, that may not be a total deal breaker - in the right offense with the proper brainpower, Dell can be a dangerous player thanks to his elite elusiveness and agility. His route running is very sharp due to his ability to stop and change speed on a dime and smooth change of direction skills. There's enough to fill a highlight reel when it comes to Dell, but will there be enough to utilize him against tenacious, physical NFL secondaries?