The Houston Texans’ reported plan to sign veteran running back Nick Chubb alongside Joe Mixon has sparked speculation about the team’s strategy and Mixon’s health. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network announced that the Texans intend to sign Chubb on Monday, pending a physical, following ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler’s report that the team was eyeing the free agent to join Mixon in the backfield. This move comes after Mixon’s impressive first season with the Texans, where he rushed for 1,016 yards, added 309 receiving yards, and scored 12 total touchdowns, solidifying his role as a key piece in their championship aspirations. However, the decision to bring in Chubb, a four-time Pro Bowler despite recent injuries, raises questions about the depth and durability of the Texans’ running game.
Adding to the intrigue, popular doctor Jesse Morse has expressed concern about Mixon’s condition, pointing to his high ankle sprain in 2024 that caused him to miss three games and noting that Mixon was recently seen in a walking boot after offseason surgery. Morse’s comments suggest there might be undisclosed issues with Mixon’s health, which could explain the urgency to sign Chubb. If Mixon has indeed undergone surgery, as Morse implies, it would be a significant factor in the Texans’ decision to bolster their backfield. The team has not officially confirmed any surgery, but the timing of Chubb’s potential signing aligns with concerns about Mixon’s readiness for the upcoming season.
The Texans’ approach to their running back room is a calculated one, especially as both Mixon and Chubb enter the veteran stages of their careers. Chubb, who has faced multiple injuries, could benefit from a reduced workload alongside Mixon, potentially extending his effectiveness. Mixon’s contract, a three-year, $27 million extension signed in March 2024, keeps him with the team through 2026, but the addition of Chubb suggests a hedge against uncertainty. For the Texans, it’s about balancing immediate needs with long-term planning, and for Mixon and Chubb, it’s about proving they can still deliver. The 2025 season looms, and with it, a chance to see if this backfield duo can carry the team forward, health permitting.
