The Houston Texans have just dropped a bombshell in the NFL world, and it’s leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. Why are they doubling down on older running backs when the league is trending younger and faster? The latest move—acquiring David Montgomery from the Lions—seems to slam the door shut on Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb, two seasoned veterans who were already part of the Texans’ roster. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a strategic masterstroke or a risky gamble that could backfire? Let’s dive in.
The Texans have a peculiar fondness for veteran running backs, and Montgomery’s arrival only cements this trend. At 29 (turning 30 in June), he’s set to lead the backfield alongside the younger Woody Marks, effectively ending any chance of Mixon or Chubb returning in 2026. Chubb, who rushed for 506 yards in 15 games last season, is a free agent, while Mixon—still shrouded in mystery due to his undisclosed foot injury—is all but certain to be released. Both will hit the open market, leaving fans to wonder: Is Houston making room for the future, or are they stuck in the past?
And this is the part most people miss: the Texans’ depth chart is now stacked with Montgomery and Marks, leaving no room for older backs like Chubb (30) and Mixon (turning 30 in July). Even the third-string running back typically plays special teams—a role rarely filled by veterans. For Chubb and Mixon to return, they’d need to remain unsigned elsewhere and hope for an injury to open the door. Talk about a long shot.
Financially, the move makes sense—sort of. Montgomery’s $6 million salary this year is a bargain compared to top free-agent running backs, and his $9 million cap hit in 2027 isn’t outrageous. But here’s the kicker: the Texans gave up valuable assets, including a fourth-round pick, for a player who’s already on the wrong side of 30. Is this a smart investment, or are they overpaying for past-their-prime talent?
The timing of the trade is also worth noting. Coming hot on the heels of the Scouting Combine, it suggests the Texans scoured the free-agent market and decided Montgomery was the safest bet at a reasonable cost. Yet, their strategy of pairing one older back with a younger one—while simultaneously overhauling the offensive line every year—feels like a head-scratcher. Are they building a contender, or are they just shuffling deck chairs on the Titanic?
Here’s the real question for you: Do the Texans’ moves signal a savvy understanding of the running back market, or are they stuck in an outdated mindset? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark some fiery opinions.
