On Monday, NFL Media revealed that the Texans and Lions agreed to terms on a deal sending Montgomery to Houston. The AFC South franchise now boasts significant depth at running back, but changes to the depth chart could be imminent.

According to Mike Florio of NBC, the Texans plan to make David Montgomery their RB1, with Woody Marks serving as his primary backup. Despite Joe Mixon still being under contract, reports suggest Houston could release him soon, while Nick Chubb is not expected to return next season.

Joe Mixon’s health issues continue

Last year, Joe Mixon was sidelined with a foot injury. Initial reports indicated he would eventually return, but that never materialized, and he ended up missing the entire 2025 NFL season.

Mixon’s situation remains puzzling. Many analysts consider the details surrounding his injury and prolonged absence a mystery, as neither the Texans nor the player have fully clarified the extent of the issue.

As of now, Mixon is not expected to draw significant interest in free agency. Teams are typically hesitant to invest in a player with uncertain health, especially one coming off a full season away from the field.

What will happen with Nick Chubb?

The Texans acquired Nick Chubb last year following Mixon’s injury. He was coming off a serious knee injury of his own, which raised questions about his durability and effectiveness.

Chubb finished the season with 506 rushing yards in 15 games. With Montgomery now in the picture and Chubb set to become a free agent, Houston is not expected to bring him back for the 2026 campaign.

The latest update brings good news for the Cardinals, but not so much for CJ Stroud’s offense. According to the latest report from Adam Schefter on his X account, Demercado will be available for his team, while Chubb has been ruled out.

With the Arizona’s RB taking the field at NRG Stadium, we will witness a great matchup between him and one of the most solid defenses presented so far this season, the Texans’ defense.

What injury does Nick Chubb have?

The Houston Texans’ running back Nick Chubb is dealing with a rib injury during the latter stages of the 2025 season. He sustained the injury in Week 14, which forced him to exit the Texans’ victory over the Kansas City Chiefs early.

This situation subsequently will keep him out of the team’s Week 15 contest against the Arizona Cardinals as a precaution, marking a notable late-season setback for the veteran as the team competed for a playoff spot.

This season with the Texans, Chubb achieved solid production, logging 115 carries for a total of 472 rushing yards and scoring 3 touchdowns. His efficiency remained consistent, averaging 4.1 yards per carry before sustaining his late-season injury.

The impact of Demercado on the Cardinals’ offense

Emari Demercado achieved remarkably high efficiency on the Cardinals’ ground. Across 31 carries, he accumulated 241 rushing yards for an impressive average of 7.8 yards per carry. While he did not record a rushing touchdown (0 TDs), his explosive production provided a significant spark to his team’s running game.

Despite being listed as questionable for this matchup in Houston due to an ankle injury, the former TCU Horned Frogs player will be available, providing another weapon for Gannon’s offense.

A few years ago, the Cleveland Browns had one of the NFL’s best running backs in Nick Chubb. Despite the team’s struggles, he posted elite numbers and delivered standout performances that impressed everyone.

Everything changed in 2023, when Chubb suffered a devastating knee injury. Since then, he hasn’t been able to return to peak form, but he believes his move to Houston will be the turning point.

Nick Chubb makes bold comparison to Derrick Henry

In the NFL, running backs rarely stay at the top for many years. Their position makes them highly susceptible to injuries, and only a few can avoid them long enough to maintain elite status.

For Chubb, avoiding that fate proved impossible. A torn ACL and MCL in 2023 derailed his career trajectory, keeping him from regaining the dominance he once displayed.

Derrick Henry’s career has taken the opposite path. Thanks to his unique build and durability, the Ravens star has stayed healthy and productive, performing at a high level in nearly every season he has played.

That’s why comparing Chubb to Henry might seem unusual to some—just not to Chubb himself. According to the new Texans RB, who turns 30 this year, he belongs in the same conversation as Henry among the league’s top backs over 30.

“[Henry] is different,” Chubb told ESPN’s Bien-Aime. “You are not gonna put him in that category, he showed it’s not true. And I think that applies for me. I’m in the category with them. I’m different, and I feel good as I have been.”

Can Nick Chubb become the Texans’ RB1?

Despite his recent injuries, Chubb’s self-belief hasn’t wavered. His opportunity to prove it may come sooner than expected.

Texans starter Joe Mixon is dealing with an injury that will sideline him for the start of the 2025 season. Chubb is set to step in, and if he performs like the player he was in Cleveland, Mixon’s role could be in jeopardy.

The Texans have significantly improved in recent years, largely thanks to the arrival of C.J. Stroud in 2023. They’ve built a strong offense around their star quarterback, with Joe Mixon expected to be a crucial piece.

Unfortunately, Mixon may not be available for the season opener. He’s currently dealing with a foot injury, which could force the team to turn to their newest addition, Nick Chubb, as the starter.

DeMeco Ryans speaks clearly on Nick Chubb amid Joe Mixon’s uncertain status

Nick Chubb’s arrival in Houston sparked a mix of excitement and concern. Just a few years ago, this move would have been considered a blockbuster signing. Today, however, fans are wary due to his recent injury history.

Chubb suffered a major knee injury in 2023 that required multiple surgeries. Since then, he’s battled additional setbacks, which have naturally impacted his performance on the field.

As a result, the Browns chose not to re-sign him for 2025. Once he became a free agent, several teams expressed interest, but Chubb ultimately chose the Texans as his next destination.

Chubb knew he was coming in as a backup. However, with Mixon still recovering, the veteran may be called upon to start in Week 1. According to DeMeco Ryans, the team is confident Chubb can rise to the occasion and regain his top form.

“Nick has been consistent. He’s done a really good job,” HC DeMeco Ryans told reporters. “I see a very physical runner when he has the football in his hand. He does a really nice job in protection schemes and of staying square, picking up the blitzes from the defenders. He’s just all around solid, consistent. He’s gotten better every day that he’s been here.”

Can Joe Mixon be ready for Week 1?

Right now, Joe Mixon is listed as “out” on the team’s depth chart. He sustained a foot injury in July that has already ruled him out for the entire preseason and left his Week 1 status in serious doubt.

While Nick Chubb is expected to carry the load if Mixon can’t go, there’s no question that Mixon is still considered the RB1. However, rushing his return could risk further injury and jeopardize his availability for the rest of the season.

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.

In a recent post on his official Instagram account, the running back opened up his heart to everyone connected to his former team: “7 years. That’s more than just time – it’s where I grew roots, found a home, and felt a love like nowhere else. Cleveland, you didn’t just embrace me; you became family.“

Chubb became a historic figure for the franchise, gradually establishing himself as a cornerstone of the offense since entering the league. Selected with the 35th overall pick in the second round of the 2018 Draft, the running back earned the love of the entire fanbase through hard work and standout performances.

The farewell of one of the most beloved

These kinds of emotional farewells often come with long messages where words may never be enough to express such deep feelings. Chubb shared his through @nchubb27, remembering each and every person who accompanied him along the way.

“To every fan who cheered, shouted, and believed- you gave me purpose. To this city, with its grit, heart, and unforgettable spirit: you showed me what true community feels like. To my teammates, only we know how hard we fought every day and night.

“…This city deserves a winning season every year. It’s earned it. This city doesn’t quit. The people never stop believing. And my Brothers in that locker room, will never stop fighting. Cleveland’s time is now… and not because they are owed anything, but because RESILIENCE ALWAYS WINS. Just like we preached everyday in meetings.

He finally concluded: “This isn’t goodbye to what we built; it’s a thank you. For the trust, the passion, and the moments that made me feel like I belonged here from day one. Cleveland, you’ll always have a piece of my heart. Until we meet again.“

The next challenge for Chubb and the Texans

Battle-tested veteran Nick Chubb has changed divisions, but not conferences. From now on, he’ll be at DeMeco Ryans’ disposal as a new ground option for C.J. Stroud in the Texans’ offense.

Although Houston has been dominating the AFC South with confidence for some time, their divisional rivals have significantly strengthened their rosters, setting the stage for a more balanced competition to determine who will ultimately secure the top seed.

Chubb’s arrival brings a significant upgrade to an offense aiming to stay among the league’s elite and, why not, dream of becoming a serious title contender down the road.

Back in 2017, the Browns made a franchise-altering decision by drafting Myles Garrett with the No. 1 overall pick. Since then, he’s become one of the league’s most dominant defensive players and a cornerstone of Cleveland’s rebuild.

A year later, in an effort to strengthen the offense, the Browns selected Nick Chubb. While he was once one of the top offensive weapons in the league, his path didn’t mirror Garrett’s in the long run.

Myles Garrett sends emotional farewell message to Nick Chubb

Not long ago, the Browns were considered one of the most promising teams in the league. After years of disappointment, they built a competitive roster that brought hope to the fanbase.

On defense, Myles Garrett quickly emerged as the leader. Today, he’s widely viewed as one of the best defensive players in the NFL—a relentless force for any opposing quarterback.

On offense, Nick Chubb established himself as one of the league’s top running backs. However, a devastating knee injury in 2023 changed everything for him.

Following his recovery, the Browns opted not to offer Chubb a new deal due to concerns over performance and durability. As a result, he has joined the Houston Texans for the 2025 season. After his departure, Garrett took to social media to send a heartfelt farewell message to his longtime teammate and friend.

“I love Nick. I think a lot of the guys who are in this locker room still feel the same way as I do,” Garrett said. “It crushed us to see him get injured and have to battle through, and then it happened again. So, we want the very best for him. Happy to see him still able to play, still able to do his thing. Want to see him go back to being the player that he was and have a smile on his face, continue to ball out.”

What is Nick Chubb’s contract with the Texans?

In 2025, C.J. Stroud will have a new partner in the Texans’ backfield. After Cleveland declined to re-sign him, Nick Chubb officially joined Houston, giving him a chance to restart his career in a new environment.

Chubb’s market value has clearly declined following his injury. He signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Texans, and his future with the team will likely depend on how he performs this season.

Nick Chubb has been the face of the Cleveland Browns for years. He has embodied the city and tried to elevate the team. After suffering a gruesome injury, it seems that Chubb will leave Shedeur Sanders and join C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans in the 2025 NFL season.

The running back has been one of the best in the last few years but a knee injury clearly hampered his career. Last season, he was able to play only eight games and ran for 332 yards and 3 TDs. Ian Rapoport, from NFL Network, reported Chubb is expected to sign with Houston on Monday if he passes the physical test.

However, the Browns were also looking to move on. They selected RB Quinshon Judkins with a second-round pick. Seeing that, it was clear for Chubb that his future was outside of Cleveland.

Can Chubb help the Texans?

The Texans have Joe Mixon as RB1. Not only is he a great dual-threat running back, but he is in his prime. Given Chubb’s injuries, he won’t compete for a starting role.

However, Chubb can be productive and push the Texans further. Chubb is still able to help out. First and foremost, he will provide Mixon much-needed rest during the game and serve as a powerful backup.

Secondly, Chubb is a leader of men and will be great for team morale. The Texans are a playoff team and hope to go for a big run this season. The former Georgia man can give depth to the roster.

What other weapons do the Texans have?

Besides Chubb and Mixon, the Texans have a young core of good, promising WRs. Of course, Nico Collins will be the first option. Collins is an absolute beast and is fresh off a 1,000-yard season. He also added 7 TDs. While Tank Dell is not available for this year (still battling a knee injury), the Texans drafted Jayden Higgins, who is another standout receiver with a similar build to that of Collins.

Stroud also has one of the NFL‘s safest tight ends in Dalton Schulz. As long as Stroud has good protection, he will be in the mix for a stellar season under center. Will Chubb be a star in Houston? Probably not, but he will add to the team for sure.

One of the most unfortunate storylines in recent years has been Nick Chubb’s decline. Once considered one of the top running backs in the NFL, everything changed in 2023.

During a Week 2 matchup against the Steelers, Chubb suffered a devastating knee injury. Since then, he hasn’t looked the same, and some fans even speculated whether he might consider early retirement.

Browns GM Andrew Berry reveals team’s plans for Nick Chubb

Nick Chubb’s career took a difficult turn in 2023. Known for his consistency and explosiveness out of the backfield, he was expected to be a key piece of Cleveland’s push for success.

However, the knee injury he sustained required two surgeries to repair both his MCL and ACL. Since then, Chubb has struggled to regain the form that once made him one of the league’s most feared runners.

Though he returned in 2024, his production was limited. He rushed for just 332 yards on 102 attempts and scored three touchdowns—numbers that didn’t help his case for a contract renewal.

When the Browns declined to offer him a new deal after the season, Chubb officially became a free agent. And while the team could have re-signed him, GM Andrew Berry has now made it clear that a reunion in 2025 is unlikely.

Speaking on Friday, Berry acknowledged Chubb’s contributions to the franchise but admitted that a return doesn’t appear to be in the plans for the upcoming season.

“I wouldn’t rule anything out, but I would say it’s probably increasingly unlikely,” Berry said in a Friday on Cleveland’s 92.3 The Fan. “We do have two young guys that we like. We think Jerome plays a role. It’s basically kind of maybe seeing how the roles shake out in the running backs room.

Which teams could sign Nick Chubb?

Chubb’s future remains uncertain. He has expressed a desire to continue playing and prove he can still perform at a high level, though questions about his health remain.

According to recent speculation, the Chicago Bears could be a potential landing spot. If signed, Chubb would likely serve as a backup behind D’Andre Swift, offering veteran depth and experience to their backfield.

Last year, the Chicago Bears were able to select 1st overall in the NFL Draft. With that pick, they acquired Caleb Williams, who for many scouts is a generational talent that can change an entire franchise.

Unfortunately, Williams didn’t have a great rookie campaign. Following the disappointing season, the front office has decided to bolster the roster even more and acquire more talented weapons to help the quarterback in his quest for success.

Report: Bears are aggressively pursuing a 4-time Pro Bowl running back

When the Bears knew they were going to get the 1st overall pick in 2024, everyone knew what they would do. With it, the NFC North franchise acquired Caleb Williams, one of the best prospects in recent years.

Nevertheless, Williams didn’t have a great rookie campaign. The Bears had the worst overall offense in the entire NFL and ranked 31st in passing, only ahead of the Patriots. The club is aware that this can’t happen again in 2025, which is why they are building a stronger roster around the quarterback.

This offseason, the Bears have added several weapons to help Caleb Williams. In the 2025 NFL Draft, they used five of their eight draft picks on offensive players, but they are not stopping there.

One of the main issues for Chicago last year was running the ball. They currently have D’Andre Swift as their starter, but it seems like they are aggressively pursuing an elite running back to create a solid duo in the backfield.

According to Ken Carman of Fox8News, the Bears are “very serious” about potentially signing Nick Chubb. The running back recently became a free agent after the Browns didn’t offer him a contract extension.

It is true that one of the main issues for Chubb in recent years has been staying healthy. Nevertheless, the running back has posted several videos on his social media accounts in which he is training hard, proving that he is healthy enough to become a top-tier player again.

What happened to Nick Chubb?

The story of Nick Chubb is definitely heartbreaking. A few years ago, the running back was regarded as the best player at his position in the entire NFL, but an injury in 2023 changed everything for him.

Against the Steelers in Week 2, the running back sustained a tough knee injury. He underwent two surgeries to repair his ACL and MCL, and has not been able to regain his level since then.

The story of Nick Chubb is truly heartbreaking. Just a few years ago, the former Browns star was considered one of the top-tier running backs in the league, seen as a cornerstone of Cleveland’s future success.

Unfortunately, everything changed in 2023. During Week 2 against the Steelers, Chubb suffered a devastating season-ending left knee injury, and he hasn’t been able to return to his peak form since.

Nick Chubb warns the NFL with powerful social media message

After his serious knee injury, many questioned whether Nick Chubb would ever play again. However, the veteran back refused to walk away from the game and committed to a long, difficult recovery process.

He underwent multiple surgeries to repair his MCL, ACL, and meniscus. Chubb missed the rest of the 2023 season and, after returning in 2024, suffered a broken foot in Week 15 that once again cut his season short.

Following these setbacks, the Browns opted not to extend his contract this offseason. Now a free agent, Chubb faces uncertainty as questions about his long-term health may cause teams to hesitate in signing him.

But Chubb is determined to prove the doubters wrong. In a recent social media post, he shared a video of himself squatting over 500 pounds—sending a clear message that his knee and foot are back to full strength.

At 29, Chubb may no longer be seen as a starting-caliber RB1, but if healthy, he could be a valuable addition to any team looking for a strong, experienced option to bolster their running back rotation.

Are there any teams interested in Nick Chubb?

Nick Chubb’s future remains uncertain. He has not announced any plans to retire and is reportedly determined to play in the 2025 season, but potential landing spots are still unclear.

According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, the Browns are keeping the door open for a possible return. The team may explore bringing him back on a one-year deal, with Chubb potentially serving as a backup to Jerome Ford, who is expected to step into the RB1 role.