Nathaniel “Tank” Dell (WR) – Houston/Senior
5’8”, 163.0 Lbs. (Senior Bowl)
2022 Stats: 13 games, 109 receptions, 1398 yards, 12.8 yards per reception, 17 touchdowns
{Reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/nathaniel-dell-1.html}
Awards:
Measurables: (AVAILABLE POST COMBINE/PRO DAY)
Games Watched: 2022 Vs. Texas Tech, 2022 Vs. Memphis
PRO’S
Strategic with the timing of his breaks, paired with his elite ability to manufacture separation creates big windows for his quarterback to place the football. Good start/stop ability. Dell is savvy and knows how to use his hands/arms to get off defenders before completing the catch without being too obvious and drawing the flag. Does not shy away from the offensive weapon role, when given the ball on screens he will try to find space but take what he can get physically if need be. Developed a strong rapport with QB Thune during his time at Houston and Thune consistently looked for Dell when he needed a big play or when he was under duress escaping the pass rush and looking for an outlet.
CON’S
At 5’8”, 163 lbs, Dell is very very slight, he looks like a feather floating around out there with a hemi engine attached to it. Though Dell has elite speed and strong ball tracking ability, his short arms/frame make it difficult for him to outstretch for overthrown balls. I worry about whether or not he can stay on the field and avoid injury if he is utilized as an offensive weapon and given 6-10 touches a game (the amount of touches I believe an offensive weapon like Dell demands).
OVERALL
I would not be surprised at all if Tank Dell has the fastest 40 time of all receivers at the combine. Dell is aggressive and plays the game with an edge but his frame is small and whoever drafts him will need to get him in space outside the hash marks as often as possible to keep him on the field. At Houston, Dell was relied upon to bail Thune and the Cougars offense out when plays broke down, Dell is QB friendly with a pocket sized make-up.
Completed by: @coachschepps, 02/14/23
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 02/14/23
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