The Houston Texans' recent moves have sent shockwaves through the NFL, especially for fans of veteran running backs. The team's apparent preference for older players in this position is a bold strategy, but it's one that leaves some big names out in the cold.
The acquisition of David Montgomery from the Lions is the latest twist in this tale. With the arrival of the 28-year-old Montgomery, the Texans are signaling a shift away from their current running back duo. Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb, both seasoned players, now seem to have no place in the team's future plans.
Chubb, who joined the Texans as a free agent last year, rushed for over 500 yards in 2025. Meanwhile, Mixon's 2025 season was marred by a mysterious foot injury, keeping him on the non-football injury list. With Chubb's contract expiring and Mixon's release all but certain, both players will be free to explore other opportunities.
But here's the catch: the Texans' depth chart is already stacked with Montgomery and the promising Woody Marks leading the running back corps. And in a league where older running backs rarely contribute on special teams, this leaves little room for Chubb and Mixon, both on the cusp of 30. Their only route back to Houston would be through an injury-induced reunion, a scenario that neither player would likely wish for.
Montgomery's contract further cements this strategy. He's set to earn $6 million this year and $9 million in 2027, making him the veteran presence while Marks, an impressive rookie, continues to grow. The Texans' decision to trade for Montgomery right after the Scouting Combine indicates a calculated move to secure a proven player at a bargain, compared to the market value of top free-agent running backs.
The Texans gave up valuable assets, including a fourth-round pick, for Montgomery's services. This move, while controversial, aligns with their pattern of pairing an older running back with a younger counterpart. And let's not forget the annual offensive line shake-up, a strategy that raises more questions than it answers.
And this is where opinions might clash. Is the Texans' approach a clever, cost-effective strategy or a risky gamble? Are they building a sustainable future or setting themselves up for a fall? The team's unique approach to roster construction is sure to spark debate. What do you think about this unconventional method? Is it a stroke of genius or a recipe for disaster?
