The Texans' running back room is about to undergo a significant transformation, and it's a move that has sparked some intriguing discussions among fans and analysts alike. The arrival of David Montgomery signals the end of an era for Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb in Houston.
You see, the Texans have a penchant for veteran running backs, and with the addition of Montgomery, who's approaching his 30th birthday, the team's depth chart is set to undergo a major overhaul.
Last year, the Texans acquired Nick Chubb as a free agent, and in 2024, they traded for Joe Mixon. However, with the official trade for Lions running back David Montgomery, it's clear that neither Mixon nor Chubb will be returning to Houston in 2026.
Chubb, who rushed for 506 yards in 15 games (starting 9) last season, is now a free agent, and Mixon, who spent the entire year on the non-football injury list due to a mysterious foot injury, is expected to be released. Both players will be available to other teams, but their paths back to Houston are narrow and reliant on specific circumstances.
The Texans' depth chart at running back is now set with Montgomery and Woody Marks leading the way. The third-string running back typically plays a significant role on special teams, which is an area that older running backs often shy away from. Chubb, at 30, and Mixon, who turns 30 in July, would struggle to fit into this role.
Montgomery's contract adds an interesting dynamic. He's set to earn $6 million this year and is due for a $9 million payday in 2027. This means he'll be the older option for at least one, if not two, seasons, while Marks, who had an impressive 703 rushing yards as a rookie, continues to develop.
The decision to trade for Montgomery so soon after the Scouting Combine suggests the Texans explored their free-agent options and opted for a proven commodity at a relatively lower cost compared to the top available running backs. However, this move also required the Texans to part with valuable assets, including a fourth-round pick, which is a significant investment for a team with a specific strategy.
And this is where it gets controversial. The Texans' approach of having one older running back and one younger one, coupled with a significant annual overhaul of the offensive line, is a strategy that raises some eyebrows. It's an intriguing choice, to say the least.
So, what do you think? Is this a smart move by the Texans, or are they taking a risky approach? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! We'd love to hear your take on this intriguing roster decision.
