Texans Take Calculated Gamble on Nick Chubb to Strengthen Backfield Duo with Joe Mixon

Four-time Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb is expected to sign a one-year contract with the Houston Texans, according to sources reported by ESPN. The deal is contingent on Chubb passing a physical evaluation. If finalized, this move would bring a seasoned and experienced backfield presence to the Texans as they look to strengthen their ground game heading into the 2025 season.

Texans Add Chubb to Deep Backfield Featuring Mixon, Pierce, Ogunbowale, and Marks

Chubb would be entering a crowded but talented Houston backfield led by two-time Pro Bowler Joe Mixon. The group also includes Dameon Pierce, Dare Ogunbowale, and Woody Marks, a promising fourth-round pick from USC. With this depth, the Texans seem to be preparing for a rotational approach to the running game, aimed at reducing individual workload and preserving player health.

Chubb was originally drafted in the second round in 2018 by the Cleveland Browns out of the University of Georgia. Over seven seasons in Cleveland, he amassed 6,843 rushing yards, placing him third on the franchise’s all-time rushing list. Known for his strength, vision, and explosiveness, Chubb became a centerpiece of the Browns’ offense during his tenure and earned four Pro Bowl nods along the way.

Texans Bet on Chubb’s Recovery to Bolster Explosive Backfield with Mixon

Despite his impressive track record, Chubb’s time with the Browns has been marred by injuries in recent years. He suffered a major knee injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season and returned mid-2024, only to sustain a broken foot in Week 15. His limited 2024 campaign saw him record just 332 rushing yards in eight games, with career lows in both yards per carry (3.3) and explosive runs (4.9% of carries over 10 yards).

Despite recent setbacks, the Texans are optimistic that Chubb can return to his elite form and serve as a dynamic complement to Mixon. The duo has the potential to form a powerful one-two punch in the backfield, giving Houston a formidable rushing attack. The reported signing was first broken by NFL Network and marks a calculated risk by the Texans in pursuit of postseason success.