Aaron Wilson Shares Key Texans Training Camp Updates: Tank Dell, Marlin Klein, Logan Hall, Braden Smith & More
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With Houston Texans training camp just days away, KPRC's Aaron Wilson joined Second Guessan with Stressan to provide the latest on several of the team's biggest storylines, including injury updates, position battles, and what fans should expect when practices begin.
Here are the biggest takeaways from the conversation.
Tank Dell Expected to Practice, But Texans Will Take It Slow
The biggest question entering camp revolves around wide receiver Tank Dell, who continues working back from the devastating knee injury he suffered in December 2024.
Wilson said the expectation is that Dell will be active during training camp rather than opening on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, allowing him to participate in individual work as the Texans carefully manage his recovery.
While Dell has impressed throughout his rehab, Wilson emphasized Houston will avoid rushing him into contact situations.
"I believe he'll be active for camp... they'll take a measured approach."
Wilson noted that even though Dell has progressed extremely well, the real hurdle becomes exposing him to contested catches and football contact. He also mentioned the Texans could ultimately choose to ease Dell into the regular season if it best serves his long-term health.
Rather than viewing a delayed regular season debut negatively, Wilson believes it could allow Dell to make a greater impact later in the year once he's fully healthy.
Marlin Klein Fully Recovered From Hamstring Injury
One concern from spring practices appears to be behind the Texans.
Wilson reported that rookie tight end Marlin Klein has fully recovered from the hamstring strain that sidelined him during OTAs and minicamp.
According to Wilson, Klein is expected to enter training camp without restrictions.
While the Texans may gradually increase his workload after missing much of the offseason program, he is not expected to begin camp on any inactive list.
That gives Houston's second-round pick valuable practice time as he competes for snaps in a crowded tight end room.
Logan Hall Trending Toward Full Participation
Another positive update came along the defensive line.
Wilson said Logan Hall is expected to be ready for training camp after dealing with a groin injury and knee tendinitis during the spring. Neither injury required surgery.
Houston's plan remains to utilize Hall similarly to how Denico Autry was deployed.
Hall is expected to primarily work as a three-technique defensive tackle while also kicking outside in certain packages, giving DeMeco Ryans another versatile "big end" capable of playing multiple positions.
Braden Smith Viewed as the Starting Right Tackle
Despite outside speculation about competition at right tackle, Wilson doesn't believe the Texans view the position that way.
Smith, who underwent neck surgery following last season, increased his activity throughout minicamp and is expected to continue progressing entering camp.
Wilson pointed to Houston's two-year investment in Smith as evidence the organization views him as the starter, while veteran Trent Brown provides excellent insurance as the swing tackle.
MJ Stewart Progressing Back From Torn Quad
Wilson also shared an encouraging update on veteran safety MJ Stewart.
Stewart missed spring practices while recovering from a torn quadriceps tendon—the same injury that ended EJ Speed's season earlier this offseason.
The expectation is that Stewart will participate more during training camp as he continues working toward full strength.
Jake Hansen May Have Inside Track at Third Linebacker
With EJ Speed lost for the season, many fans have immediately focused on rookies Wade Woodaz, Jamal Hill or versatile defender Marte Mapu as candidates for the third linebacker role.
Wilson urged fans not to overlook Jake Hansen.
The veteran linebacker has consistently earned the coaching staff's trust, beat the odds as an undrafted free agent, and sits higher on Houston's internal depth chart than many realize.
While training camp will ultimately determine the competition, Hansen appears positioned to receive the first opportunity.
Nico Collins Was Simply Being Managed
Wilson also addressed one offseason topic that generated plenty of speculation.
After speaking with Nico Collins, Wilson said the Pro Bowl receiver indicated there is no injury concern following his limited participation during OTAs.
According to Collins, the coaching staff and general manager Nick Caserio simply wanted him to take a cautious approach during the voluntary offseason program.
Wilson expects Collins to be fully ready once training camp opens.
Texans Comfortable Evaluating Their Own Edge Rushers
One question fans continue asking is whether Houston could add another veteran defensive end.
Wilson said there is currently no momentum toward signing players like Jadeveon Clowney, Cameron Jordan or Derek Barnett before camp.
Instead, the Texans want to evaluate Dominique Robinson, Dylan Horton and Logan Hall in live practice situations before deciding whether an outside addition becomes necessary later in training camp or during the preseason.
Training Camp Will Answer Several Remaining Questions
While several injury updates appear encouraging, Wilson emphasized that camp will provide the first real opportunity to evaluate player readiness after months of rehabilitation.
Among the biggest storylines to watch include:
Tank Dell's progression toward football contact.
Marlin Klein's return after missing most of the spring.
Logan Hall's versatility along the defensive line.
The battle for the third linebacker role.
Whether Houston ultimately needs to add veteran depth at defensive end.
With rookies already reporting and veterans set to arrive soon, those questions should begin receiving answers as the Texans prepare for the 2026 season.
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