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Chiefs defenders send well wishes to Texans WR Tank Dell after serious knee injury in Week 16
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

A dark cloud hung over the Kansas City Chiefs' Week 16 game against the Houston Texans after WR Tank Dell suffered a serious knee injury after a collision with his teammate while catching a touchdown pass in the third quarter of the game.

Dell was transported to the University of Kansas Medical Center after having his entire left leg placed in an air cast. Texans HC DeMeco Ryans told reporters after the game that Dell would stay overnight in Kansas City for evaluation of his knee injury. The injury is expected to be season-ending for Dell, who also missed a portion of the 2023 NFL season with a fractured fibula. 

During the game, Chiefs CB Jaylen Watson sent prayers to Dell. Watson is currently on injured reserve, dealing with an injury, rehab, and recovery that may also keep him out for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season. 

After the game, Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie wished Dell well and discussed the injury situation. McDuffie was the defender in coverage on the play that injured Dell. He saw the collision between Dell and Jared Wayne up close. 

"Yeah, it's unfortunate," McDuffie said. "I mean, he's a really good player, you know, a lot of energy, and he was big for them on that team. And whenever you see a guy like that get hurt, or something freaky like that, it's always disappointing, you know what I mean? I'm praying for him. Hopefully, he's able to recover and come back strong."

Finally, Charles Omenihu sent out prayers for Dell. While the two didn't play together when Omenihu was a member of the Texans, they likely crossed paths during Dell's time at the University of Houston. 

Dell's injury seemed to be a major turning point in the game. After the touchdown, Texans K Kai'mi Fairburn came on to take the PAT try but missed the kick. Houston was never able to recapture the momentum gained from that touchdown catch. Instead, they seemed distracted and concerned about their teammate, and you can hardly blame them. 

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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