Nick Chubb has landed with the Houston Texans for the 2025 NFL season. However, many fans are concerned about his health, as injuries have significantly impacted his career in recent years.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans is well aware that getting the best out of Nick Chubb won’t be easy. Still, he believes it’s not impossible for a player who was once considered the best running back in the NFL.
“When it comes to Chubb, and how am I comparing him? You know, guys age,” Ryans said. “He’s been through a lot. It’s not always gonna be the same as his early years in the NFL, but what I hang my hat on with him is that this guy loves football. He’s physical, he plays the right way, he prepares himself the right way, really sharp guy when it comes to the protection scheme. He’s on it. He’s helping out the guys. I’m excited to see him play football, that’s what he’s always been, he’s always been a tremendous football player, especially when he’s healthy, so he’s still working his way back, looks like he’s in really good shape, and he’ll continue to get better.”
Nick Chubb will battle himself, not Joe Mixon
Nick Chubb’s career has been marked by incredible highs and devastating lows. Despite playing for a non-contending team like the Cleveland Browns, he consistently stood out as one of the league’s premier running backs—leading many to believe he’d eventually thrive on a top-tier team.
Unfortunately, a severe knee injury suffered in 2023 changed everything. Chubb struggled to return to the elite form he once displayed, but he now hopes to revive his career in Houston.
Joe Mixon is currently regarded as the Texans’ starting running back, and that doesn’t appear likely to change. While Chubb is listed as RB2, his biggest battle won’t be for the starting job—it will be against his own body to stay healthy.
If Chubb can avoid further injuries, he could become a valuable asset in a strong one-two punch with Mixon. His role as a backup will ease the pressure and might give him the chance he needs to get back to top form.