Houston Texans’ Running Back Challenges: Consistency and Potential with David Montgomery

The Houston Texans have faced a notable challenge: they have not had the same player lead the team in rushing yards for consecutive seasons since Lamar Miller achieved this from 2016 to 2018. Since then, they have seen different leading rushers each year. Carlos Hyde led with 1,070 yards in 2019, followed by David Johnson with 691 yards in 2020, Rex Burkhead with 427 yards in 2021, Dameon Pierce with 939 yards in 2022, Devin Singletary with 898 yards in 2023, Joe Mixon with 1,016 yards in 2024, and Woody Marks with 703 yards in 2025. This lack of consistency indicates ongoing struggles in the running back position.

The team’s general manager, Nick Caserio, appears willing to continue trying new options by signing veterans and players who often have not met expectations elsewhere. This cycle has remained unchanged despite past outcomes not yielding long-term success. However, David Montgomery emerged in 2026 as a potential answer, though he aligns with the familiar approach the organization has been using.

David Montgomery’s Profile

Height: 5′ 11″
Weight: 230 lbs
Age: 29
Contract: Two years, $16.5 million

In 2025, Montgomery played 17 games, recording 158 carries for 716 rushing yards and scoring 8 touchdowns. These numbers highlight his capability compared to previous Texans’ running backs. If given the same number of carries as top NFL running backs, Montgomery likely would have exceeded 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past three seasons. He achieved this milestone once during his time with the Detroit Lions while sharing duties with Jahmyr Gibbs.

Though he ranked 31st in total carries with 158 in 2025, Montgomery managed to hold the 22nd spot for yards per attempt at 4.5 and ranked 17th in rushing touchdowns with eight. These statistics suggest his performance surpassed many peers, despite fewer opportunities. His former teammate’s impressive contributions limited his chance to rank among the top five in rushing touchdowns over three seasons.

Challenges Moving Forward

Determining whether Montgomery can maintain his performance without Gibbs as a fellow team member presents a critical question. Furthermore, concerns arise about whether he can remain healthy while serving as the primary running back. Questions also linger about if the current Texans’ offense can provide him with similar opportunities as before.

After his acquisition via trade this offseason, Montgomery immediately agreed to a restructured contract covering two years. The Texans appear to have faith in him as their potential solution. Only time will tell if he can meet these expectations, but they are banking on his potential to break their streak of inconsistent rushing leaders.