The Houston Texans have been one of the NFL’s most aggressive teams this offseason, and they’re not done yet. In a surprising late-spring twist, the franchise is reportedly set to sign former Cleveland Browns star Nick Chubb, pending a routine physical. If completed, it will mark a significant chapter in both Chubb’s comeback journey and Houston’s evolving offensive identity.
A Risk Worth Taking?
Nick Chubb is no ordinary free agent. He’s a four-time Pro Bowler with 51 career touchdowns, but also a back trying to return from one of the most devastating injuries of the 2023 season, a major knee injury that sidelined him for over a year. His 2024 return was cautious and underwhelming statistically (332 yards on 102 carries), but that doesn’t tell the whole story.
Chubb wasn’t asked to be “the guy” in Cleveland anymore. In Houston, he won’t have to be either, but he’ll bring elite-level experience and toughness to a team that’s gearing up for a deep playoff run.
Mixon and Chubb: The AFC North Duo Reunited, Sort Of
The move would make Chubb the second AFC North running back to land in Houston in as many years. Last season, the Texans traded for Joe Mixon and were rewarded with a 1,000-yard, 11-touchdown season. Now, with Chubb likely filling a complementary “power back” role, the Texans could be looking at one of the most complete one-two punches in the league.
Where Mixon thrives in open space and catching passes, Chubb’s downhill style could bring back the kind of physicality Houston hasn’t had since Arian Foster. If both stay healthy, defenses will be forced to prepare for a relentless rotation.
Crowded Backfield, Crucial Decisions
Once the Chubb deal becomes official, the Texans will have five running backs under contract:
- Joe Mixon
- Nick Chubb
- Dameon Pierce
- Woody Marks (2025 fourth-round rookie)
- Dare Ogunbowale
That’s a loaded backfield, even by NFL standards. Mixon is locked in as the starter. Pierce has flashed potential, but health has been an issue. Marks, a standout from USC, is a promising rookie. Ogunbowale is a special teams ace. The addition of Chubb could mean the Texans are preparing for potential roster reshuffling.
Don’t be surprised if this depth leads to a preseason trade or surprise cut.
What This Means for the Texans’ Offense
Head coach DeMeco Ryans and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik now have a versatile and experienced RB room to work with. With quarterback C.J. Stroud entering his second year and surrounded by ascending talents like Tank Dell, Nico Collins, and Dalton Schultz, the Texans are clearly going all in.
The addition of Chubb adds veteran leadership and postseason experience to a young core that’s already ahead of schedule. His presence also reduces the burden on Mixon to carry 20+ times a game, potentially keeping both backs fresher for late-season pushes.
A Comeback and a Championship Window
Nick Chubb has nothing left to prove individually. He’s a respected veteran, a quiet leader, and a punishing runner. But after back-to-back injury-plagued seasons, signing with a team on the rise like Houston offers him something different: a chance to win.
And for the Texans? It’s a low-risk, high-upside swing that shows they’re not here just to contend in the AFC South. They’re gunning for the conference crown.