The Houston Texans have made a strategic move by acquiring running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions, which signals a significant change in their backfield dynamics. This trade effectively closes the door on their current roster of seasoned tailbacks, including Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb, both of whom will likely not return for the 2026 season.
In 2025, Chubb contributed 506 rushing yards over 15 games for the Texans, but his status as a free agent now looms. Mixon, on the other hand, was sidelined for the entire last season due to a mysterious foot injury, leaving his future uncertain. The arrival of Montgomery, along with the promising performance of rookie running back Woody Marks—who rushed for 703 yards—means the team is shifting focus towards younger talent.
Montgomery’s contract involves a salary of $6 million for the current year, with a projected increase to $9 million in 2027. At 29 years old, he will serve as the experienced presence in the backfield for at least another season. The Texans’ strategy apparently revolves around balancing veteran experience with youthful potential, as seen in their decision to pair an older running back with an up-and-coming player.
The Texans made this trade immediately after the end of the Scouting Combine, indicating a proactive approach to building their roster. They chose Montgomery over potential free-agent options, opting for a reliable choice at a relatively low cost despite having surrendered multiple assets, including a fourth-round pick. This decision reflects their commitment to reshaping their running game.
While Chubb and Mixon’s paths may diverge from Houston’s future, the Texans appear to be positioning themselves for the next phase of their offense, emphasizing flexibility and development in their roster strategy. This approach carries the hope that the combination of experience and youth will lead to greater success on the field in the coming seasons.