In a monumental announcement, Netflix has revealed that it will premiere “The Underdog,” a highly anticipated documentary that chronicles the life and journey of one of the NFL’s brightest young stars, Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell. Slated for global release on July 12, 2025, the film will shine a light on the inspiring rise of a player who defied the odds at nearly every stage of his career, from his days as an overlooked recruit in junior college to his stardom with the University of Houston and his explosive entry into the NFL.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Erik Parker, known for his compelling storytelling and deep dives into athletes’ personal journeys, The Underdog goes beyond the football field to explore the heart, resilience, and perseverance that has made Tank Dell not only a fan favorite but also a symbol of the underdog spirit in professional sports.
A Star in the Making
Tank Dell’s story begins in Daytona Beach, Florida, where he was born and raised. From an early age, Dell exhibited immense talent in football, but being slightly undersized for a wide receiver often led to questions about whether he could make it at the next level. Despite his undeniable skill, many college programs overlooked Dell, citing his size and lack of a prestigious high school football pedigree as potential roadblocks.
The documentary captures these formative years, showing the emotional toll of rejection and the inner drive that pushed Dell to prove his critics wrong. In the film, Dell reflects on these early challenges:
“I always knew I had something special. But hearing the doubts, hearing people say I wasn’t big enough, fast enough—those things fuel you. It’s what pushed me every day to be better, even when no one else believed.”
With limited options for Division I football programs, Dell’s journey took him to Coffeyville Community College in Kansas. In The Underdog, viewers are given an intimate look at his time at junior college, where he truly began to turn heads with his exceptional route running, speed, and ability to make spectacular catches. This period marked a pivotal moment in Dell’s career, one that would later lead to a scholarship at the University of Houston, where he would go on to become one of the most dominant receivers in the country.
Houston, We Have a Star
Dell’s arrival at the University of Houston marked the beginning of the next chapter in his athletic journey. Under the coaching staff of Dana Holgorsen, Dell was able to refine his craft and showcase his elite talent on a national stage. The documentary explores Dell’s rapid rise with the Cougars, where he quickly became the centerpiece of their high-octane offense.
In his three years at Houston, Dell became one of the most productive receivers in college football, amassing over 3,000 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns. In 2022, he led the team in receiving yards, putting up an impressive 1,328 yards and 12 touchdowns in the regular season. His ability to make jaw-dropping plays in critical moments earned him a reputation as one of the most feared wide receivers in college football.
The documentary features highlights from these record-breaking seasons, including his game-winning touchdown catches and his electrifying performances against top-ranked teams. In one of the standout scenes, Dell recalls a moment from his final season with Houston:
“There’s a play in that game against Memphis—fourth quarter, down by six—and I caught the ball on the sideline, juked the defender, and sprinted to the end zone. It wasn’t just a play for me; it was a statement. This was me proving that I belonged.”
The film also delves into the bond Dell shared with his teammates, coaches, and the Houston fanbase. From his relationship with quarterback Clayton Tune to the camaraderie in the locker room, viewers will see that Tank Dell wasn’t just a star on the field—he was also a leader and motivator who helped elevate his team to new heights.
The NFL Draft: A Dream Realized
While Dell had proven himself at the college level, questions about his size and physicality lingered. Standing at 5’10” and weighing around 165 pounds, many NFL scouts were skeptical about his ability to succeed against bigger, stronger defensive backs. But Dell’s tenacity, combined with his lightning-fast speed and sharp route running, made him a sleeper pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
In The Underdog, we get a behind-the-scenes look at Dell’s draft journey, including his pre-draft workouts, the intense scouting process, and the anticipation leading up to the big day. With his mind set on proving himself at the professional level, Dell recounts the emotional rollercoaster of waiting to hear his name called on draft night.
Finally, in the third round of the draft, the Houston Texans selected Dell as their newest wide receiver, a moment that was both a culmination of years of hard work and a fresh challenge. As Dell reflects on the moment:
“When I got that call, it was more than just football. It was everything I had worked for—the sacrifices, the long nights, the doubt. It was all worth it. I was going to do whatever it took to make sure I didn’t let anyone down.”
Tank Dell’s Rookie Year: Proving the Doubters Wrong
Tank Dell’s rookie year with the Houston Texans has been nothing short of spectacular. Stepping onto the NFL field, Dell quickly showed why he was worthy of the Texans’ investment. In his first season, Dell made an immediate impact, catching passes from C.J. Stroud and establishing himself as a reliable target for Houston’s offense.
The documentary captures key moments from his rookie season, including his first touchdown reception, his explosive performances in crucial games, and his relationship with his fellow rookie teammates. Notably, the film highlights Dell’s ability to consistently make plays under pressure, earning the respect of coaches and veteran players alike.
One of the most emotional moments in the documentary comes when Dell reflects on his role in transforming the Texans’ offense:
“When I got to Houston, we were rebuilding. It wasn’t just about me. It was about changing the culture. I wanted to show everyone that we could compete and that we could be dangerous. The road ahead was long, but I was ready.”
Dell’s rookie season proves that he belongs in the NFL, and the documentary provides insight into the work ethic and mindset that has made him one of the league’s most exciting young receivers.
A Legacy in the Making
While The Underdog focuses on Dell’s football journey, it also highlights his growth as an individual and role model. The documentary dives into Dell’s background, from his humble beginnings in Daytona Beach to his rise in the world of professional football. Along the way, viewers witness how Tank Dell has used his platform to give back to his community, support youth initiatives, and become an advocate for mental health awareness.
In one of the most poignant segments of the documentary, Dell talks about his desire to inspire others who have faced adversity:
“I know what it’s like to feel like the odds are against you. I know what it’s like to have people doubt you. But I also know that if you keep pushing, you can change the narrative. I want to show people that anything is possible.”
As Dell continues to make a name for himself in the NFL, The Underdog serves as a reminder that greatness is not always about being the biggest or fastest—sometimes it’s about heart, determination, and the willingness to fight for your dreams.
The Cultural Impact of Tank Dell
Tank Dell’s journey represents the ultimate underdog story in sports, making The Underdog more than just a documentary about football. It’s about the power of belief, the importance of persistence, and the unbreakable human spirit. As sports culture continues to evolve, figures like Dell—who embrace their status as outsiders and prove their doubters wrong—are a source of inspiration to athletes across all sports and all walks of life.
With The Underdog set to release on July 12, 2025, this documentary promises to resonate with anyone who has ever faced adversity and refused to back down.
Dell’s story is far from over, and as his career continues to blossom, one thing is clear: this underdog is just getting started.