In a devastating blow to the Houston Texans, breakout rookie wide receiver Tank Dell has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a fractured left fibula during Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos.
The incident occurred in the midst of a goal-line play where running back Dameon Pierce scored a touchdown for the Texans.
Dell, who’s been in the middle of stellar season, got caught in the pile, with Broncos defensive tackle D.J. Jones inadvertently landing on Dell’s leg.
Tank Dell with what looks like a tough leg injury. Hate to see it… pic.twitter.com/jcCobx0TrW
— Dynasty Zoltan (Mike Garai) (@DynastyZoltanFF) December 3, 2023
Jones, a formidable presence on the field at 305 pounds, unintentionally came down on top of Dell’s foot during the scrum.
Initial reports suggested that the collision was purely accidental, but some eagle-eyed fans have cast a shadow over the incident.
While the Texans celebrated their 7-5 record following the game, a new slow-motion video emerged, raising questions about the nature of Jones’ involvement in Dell’s injury.
The footage appears to show the defensive lineman making deliberate contact with Dell’s leg during the play, sparking controversy and leading to speculation that he may have been intentionally trying to injure Dell.
NEW: #Texans fans are calling out #Broncos DL DJ Jones for “PURPOSELY INJURING TANK DELL,” ending his season. pic.twitter.com/4AbPSATvi0
“Jones can be seen adjusting his elbow and then pressing down on Tank Dell's ankle.”
Some very serious accusations😳
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) December 4, 2023
Despite the unfortunate turn of events, Dell’s rookie season has been nothing short of remarkable.
The third-round pick from the University of Houston made history as only the third rookie in NFL history to record at least five catches and a touchdown reception in four consecutive games.
His standout season included a career-best 149-yard performance just two weeks ago.
Dell is tied for first among NFL rookies with seven touchdown receptions, setting a franchise rookie record … He has 47 catches for 709 yards, placing him second on the team.
Do you think Jones intentionally tried to injure Dell?
Or do you just chalk it up to hard-nosed football???