The Houston Texans' recent moves have sent shockwaves through the NFL, leaving fans wondering about the future of some beloved running backs. The team's affinity for veteran players in this position has sparked a heated debate.
David Montgomery's arrival in Houston has sealed the fate of two well-known running backs: Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb. With the Texans' latest trade for Montgomery, who will officially join the team next Wednesday, the organization has made it clear that both Mixon and Chubb are not in their plans for the upcoming 2026 season.
Chubb, who joined the Texans as a free agent last year, rushed for over 500 yards in 15 games. Meanwhile, Mixon's 2025 season was marred by a mysterious foot injury, keeping him on the non-football injury list all year. The nature of his injury remains a talking point among fans and analysts.
As Chubb enters free agency and Mixon's release seems imminent, both players will be free to sign with any other team. However, the Texans' depth chart tells a different story. With Montgomery and the promising rookie Woody Marks leading the running back corps, there's little room for Chubb or Mixon. The fact that older running backs rarely contribute to special teams further diminishes their chances of returning.
Age is also a factor here. Chubb is already 30, and Mixon will join him in this milestone in July. Their path back to Houston seems narrow, requiring them to remain unsigned and for an injury to create an opportunity for a reunion.
Montgomery's contract is a significant investment for the Texans, with a $6 million payout this year and $9 million in 2027. This suggests that the team is committed to him as the veteran presence in the backfield, while Marks develops into a potential long-term solution. The Texans' decision to trade for Montgomery right after the Scouting Combine indicates they sought a reliable, cost-effective option compared to the top free-agent running backs.
The Texans' strategy is intriguing. They gave up valuable assets, including a fourth-round pick, for a player with seven years of experience who will be 29 by June. This raises questions: Is this a sustainable approach? Are they sacrificing long-term success for short-term gains? And what does this mean for the future of the running back position in Houston?
But here's where it gets controversial: Is the Texans' love for veteran running backs a clever strategy or a risky gamble? The team's recent success with this approach is undeniable, but some critics argue that it limits their ability to develop young talent. What do you think? Are the Texans building a dynasty or setting themselves up for a fall?
