Veteran free agent running back Nick Chubb is anticipated to sign with the Houston Texans on Monday if he successfully completes a team physical, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Chubb, a standout player available in free agency, is close to securing a position within the AFC following diminishing prospects of continuing with the Cleveland Browns, which has become “increasingly unlikely.”

Should he join the Texans, he will complement Joe Mixon in a backfield that struggled for consistent play last season when Mixon was unavailable. Chubb would find clear opportunities in Houston, especially after being squeezed out of a crowded running back situation in Cleveland, where the team selected Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson during the NFL Draft, while re-signing Jerome Ford.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported, “I was told that he's hoping to sign here soon, possibly before a minicamp, getting into a team. The return to Cleveland is not completely off the table due to their draft intentions, but it seems unlikely because they brought in additional running backs. Houston is under consideration as they have been actively looking to strengthen their running back options with Mixon.”

Mixon has successfully led the Texans’ backfield with a solid 1,016-yard, 11 touchdown season. However, offensive contribution beyond his performance was lacking.

Although Chubb’s last season was hampered by injuries, he remains a valuable asset with a history of performing at a high level, boasting four seasons with over 1,000 yards and a peak of 1,525 yards in 2022. Unfortunately, injuries have impacted his free agency positioning after undergoing significant knee surgeries in 2023.

In his prime, Chubb established himself as one of the elite running backs in the NFL, marking his presence with four consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2019 to 2022, tallying at least 1,000 rushing yards yearly during that span.