Nick Chubb Expected to Sign One-Year Deal With Houston Texans in Bold NFL Offseason Move
In one of the most anticipated comeback stories of the NFL offseason, four-time Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb is reportedly set to sign a one-year contract with the Houston Texans, according to multiple sources confirmed by ESPN.
After suffering a devastating knee injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season, Chubb’s future in Cleveland appeared uncertain. But now, he’s heading to an up-and-coming Texans squad led by rising star quarterback C.J. Stroud, forming what could be one of the most exciting offensive units in the AFC.
Chubb’s 2023 campaign ended prematurely when he sustained a significant injury to his left knee—an injury so severe that it required two surgeries and cast doubt over his return. Despite the setback, Chubb has remained committed to his rehab and has reportedly made significant progress, which made him a viable option for teams seeking veteran backfield help.
According to NFL insiders, Chubb and his team were seeking a short-term, prove-it deal, and Houston emerged as a perfect fit.
“Nick Chubb is one of the toughest players I’ve ever coached,” one former Browns assistant said. “He’s ready to prove he’s still got elite-level production left in him.”
🧠 Why the Texans Make Sense
The Houston Texans surprised the league last season by winning the AFC South and advancing to the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Led by Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud, the Texans have quickly become one of the NFL’s most promising young teams.
Now, with Chubb likely joining their backfield, Houston is adding veteran leadership, playoff experience, and a versatile ground threat to balance their dynamic passing attack.
While Dameon Pierce and Devin Singletary split carries last season, neither offered the consistency or explosiveness Chubb brings when healthy. The Texans have clearly signaled that they’re ready to contend—and Chubb could be the missing piece.
📈 High Risk, High Reward?
There’s no denying that signing Chubb comes with risk. At age 29 and coming off a major injury, many will question how close he’ll return to his pre-injury form.
However, before the injury, Chubb was one of the most efficient and durable backs in the league. From 2018 to 2022, he averaged over 5 yards per carry and posted four 1,000-yard seasons, despite sharing touches in a loaded Browns offense.
If Chubb returns to even 80% of that form, the Texans will have one of the most physical and versatile running backs in the NFL.
“Nick brings toughness, vision, and professionalism to any locker room,” said an anonymous AFC coach. “Houston just got scarier.”
🔮 What This Means for the AFC
The Texans were already a playoff-caliber team in 2024. With improvements on both sides of the ball and now the potential addition of Chubb, they could emerge as a true threat to the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bills in the AFC playoff picture.
Chubb’s downhill running style could prove critical in late-season matchups, especially in outdoor stadiums where ball control and physicality matter most.
📅 What Comes Next?
The deal is expected to be finalized once Chubb passes a physical, which could happen within the next week. If signed, Chubb will likely begin training camp on a snap count, gradually working his way into full participation.
Texans fans should expect the team to use a committee approach early, giving Chubb time to ease back while integrating him into Bobby Slowik’s offensive system.
🧠 Fantasy Football Implications
If Chubb looks good in preseason action, expect his fantasy stock to skyrocket. He could emerge as a solid RB2 option with RB1 upside depending on usage and red-zone touches. The Texans’ offensive line and spacing created by Stroud’s deep-ball threat could open up significant running lanes.
🎯 Final Thought
Nick Chubb’s reported move to Houston is more than just a comeback story—it’s a statement. The Texans aren’t just content with a division title. They want more. And they believe Chubb, even post-injury, can help deliver that.
For Chubb, it’s a chance to prove the doubters wrong, chase a title, and remind the league why he was once considered the best pure runner in football.