The Texans have moved up to the 69th spot, swapping with the Rams. In exchange, Los Angeles will receive picks Nos. 73 and 151, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network (Twitter link). Houston has used the pick to add wide receiver Nathaniel Dell.
Dell, nicknamed “Tank,” put together a highly productive career at the University of Houston. Between the 2021 and ’22 campaigns, he totaled 199 catches, 2,727 yards and 29 touchdowns. He led the AAC in receiving in each season, and ranked first in the country in yards last year.
Those massive figures made him one of the top options in this year’s receiver class. Questions have understandably been asked, though, about his ability to translate his production to the NFL level. Dell’s frame (5-foot-8, 165 pounds) is likely to limit his usage to the slot in the pro game.
Still, he should be able to find a role with the Texans, a team which lacked in pass-catchers last season. They added veteran Robert Woods in free agency and have 2022 second-rounder John Metchie on track to make his NFL debut in 2023. Dell will add further to a Houston offense which has now seen a number of additions during the draft.
The most impactful of those, of course, was the team’s decision to select C.J. Stroud second overall. The Ohio State alum will be tasked with solidifying the quarterback position for the long-term, something which will be made easier with an improved skill position group. Dell – who has experience as a kick and punt returner in addition to his success on offense – figures to play a part in the effort to add impact offensive players. If he can alleviate his size concerns, the former Cougar could prove to be a highly effective addition.