Texans' Tank Dell outlines how C.J. Stroud can "bridge the gap" with Patrick Mahomes as NFL's best QB
The Houston Texans struck gold in last year's draft by selecting two of the best offensive players: quarterback C.J. Stroud and wide receiver Tank Dell. Both Stroud and Dell played big roles in Houston's offensive success during the 2023-2024 season, with Stroud being named Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Stroud set multiple NFL records, such as the most passing yards in a single game by a rookie (470), tying the most touchdown passes in a single game for a rookie (5) and becoming the youngest quarterback to ever win a playoff game. Stroud has already emerged as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, and Dell thinks he could surpass Patrick Mahomes as the league's best quarterback.
Appearing on the "I Am Athlete" podcast this week, Dell said Stroud has to "keep doing what he's doing" to bridge the gap between him and Mahomes:
"He just brings a special type of swag. I for sure feel like C.J. got the opportunity to be the best quarterback in the league. Not me just saying that because of who he is to me but just like what I’m seeing him do each and every week. What the world sees, they’re seeing exactly what we’re seeing.
"How he just coming out there as a 21-year-old man going against grown men, and he’s out here just balling every week. How consistent he is. I feel like C.J. gotta keep doing what he’s doing to bridge the gap between him and Mahomes." [Time stamp - 1:27]
Tank Dell is in for a big year after missing the final six regular season games in his rookie season
Tank Dell had one of the best rookie seasons last year despite playing in just 11 regular season games. Dell suffered a fractured fibula in the Texans' Week 12 game against the Denver Broncos. As a result, he missed the Texans' final six games of the regular season and the postseason.
Dell finished his rookie campaign with 47 catches for 709 yards and seven touchdowns, which was among the rookie leaders at the time of his injury. This off-season, the Texans had a scare regarding Dell. He was involved in a shootout in late April in Florida and suffered minor injuries.
With the Texans adding wide receiver Stefon Diggs to their receiving core and adding running back Joe Mixon to the offense, it should open up more opportunities for Tank Dell, who is reportedly looking fast after recovering from his surgery.