Over the past two seasons, four-time Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb has battled multiple injuries, appearing in just 10 games. Still, when healthy, he remains one of the NFL’s most consistent and productive backs.
In his last fully healthy season with the Cleveland Browns, Chubb rushed for 1,525 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. Now a free agent, Chubb remains unsigned — but that may not be the case for long. One AFC contender has reportedly emerged as a serious candidate to sign the veteran back.
Houston Texans Emerging as Potential Landing Spot for Nick Chubb
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Houston Texans are exploring Chubb as a potential addition to their backfield alongside two-time Pro Bowler Joe Mixon.
During Sunday’s SportsCenter Countdown, Fowler said, “I was told that he’s hoping to sign here soon, and maybe he gets something done before a minicamp gets into a team. Four-time Pro Bowler.”
He added that while a return to Cleveland isn’t completely off the table, it’s unlikely due to the Browns’ recent moves.
“The return to Cleveland’s not totally off the table, from what I’m told, but probably unlikely because of their draft plans — they drafted multiple running backs. I’m told Houston could be one to watch here. They’ve been looking at that running back market, maybe adding somebody with Joe Mixon.”
Houston has been aggressive this offseason, bolstering its roster on both sides of the ball. The Texans dealt five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil but reinforced the offensive line through free agency and the draft. On defense, they added standout safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson from the Eagles. Now, they could be eyeing Chubb as the final piece to strengthen their backfield.
Houston reportedly having interest in Nick Chubb is interesting. Don’t think it would be unreasonable to bet Chubb improves in a better offensive infrastructure and another year removed from his ACL/MCL tear.
He saw contact behind the LOS on 49% (!!) of his carries last year. pic.twitter.com/WrYRLPaFAt
— John Crumpler (@JohnCrumplerMD) June 8, 2025
Adding Chubb — even in a rotational role — would bring experience, production, and stability to Houston’s rushing attack. He’s racked up 6,483 career rushing yards and 51 total touchdowns over his career.
Pairing Chubb with Mixon could give Houston a formidable one-two punch behind second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud. With mandatory minicamp quickly approaching, all eyes are on the Texans to see if they’ll close the deal and add another proven veteran to their offense.
Chubb’s Final Season With the Browns
Chubb began the 2024 season on the reserve list following his recovery from major knee surgery. He was activated ahead of Week 7 and made his return against the Bengals, scoring a touchdown in his first game back in 398 days.
In Week 12, he rushed for 59 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winner against the Steelers. But his comeback was cut short again after suffering a broken foot in Week 15. Chubb finished the year with 332 rushing yards and four total touchdowns across eight games.
Now fully healthy and nearing a new opportunity, Chubb could be poised for a strong return — and the Houston Texans may be the team willing to bet on his upside.
