The Houston Texans have experienced a revolving door at the position of leading rusher since Lamar Miller’s tenure from 2016 to 2018. Each subsequent year has witnessed a new player leading the team in rushing yards: Carlos Hyde in 2019 with 1,070 yards, David Johnson in 2020 with 691 yards, Rex Burkhead in 2021 with 427 yards, and Dameon Pierce in 2022 with 939 yards. Following them, Devin Singletary contributed 898 yards in 2023, Joe Mixon with 1,016 yards in 2024, and Woody Marks with 703 yards in 2025.
Given this pattern, the team has continually opted for fresh faces each season. Houston’s general manager, Nick Caserio, has shown a preference for veterans and players who may have passed their prime. This approach hasn’t prompted a strategic shift in team philosophy.
If the Texans have now stumbled upon a potential long-term solution, it wasn’t through a new strategy. Their well-worn method has resulted in acquiring David Montgomery for 2026.
Player Profile: David Montgomery
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 230 lbs
Age: 29
Contract: 2 years, $16.5 million
2025 Season Stats: 17 games, 158 rushes, 716 rushing yards, 8 touchdowns
Montgomery’s performance has been superior to many past Texans’ rushers. With a consistent number of carries, he likely would have exceeded 1,000 rushing yards in the last three seasons. Despite sharing carries with Jahmyr Gibbs on the Detroit Lions, he achieved this milestone once.
Montgomery was 31st in total carries (158) last year, ranked 22nd in yards per attempt (4.5), and 17th in rushing touchdowns (8). His performance, despite limited opportunities, suggests he outperformed numerous peers. Absent of an extraordinary teammate, many believe Montgomery would have ranked among the top five in rushing touchdowns over the last three seasons.
The questions remain: Can Montgomery excel without Gibbs? Will he maintain health as the primary running back? Can the Texans’ offense support him like his previous team?
Uncertainties linger, but Montgomery, acquired through a trade and signed to a restructured two-year contract, is now integral to the Texans’ plans. The organization is hopeful he becomes a key asset.