Texans could boast AFC's best RB tandem if Nick Chubb returns to form

When healthy, Chubb is a bruising back and one of the most polished, effective rushers in the league. 

A 2018 second-round pick of the Browns, Chubb compiled 6,843 yards and 51 rushing touchdowns through seven seasons in Cleveland. 

From 2019 to 2022, the former Georgia standout had four straight seasons with 1000+ rushing yards, including a career high 1,525 rushing yards in 2022. 

Chubb ranks third on the Browns’ all-time rushing list behind Hall of Famers Jim Brown and Leroy Kelly. He’s second behind Brown in multiple rushing categories, and his career average of 5.1 yards per carry is among the best in NFL history.

Now, he has an opportunity to form one of the best running back tandems in the NFL alongside two-time Pro Bowler Joe Mixon.

“He’s a bigger guy. Tall, explosive, he runs super hard, and I do the same thing, so it will be us doing that back to back against other defenses," Chubb told reporters. 

While the tandem of Mixon and Chubb, who have combined for six Pro Bowl selections, is certainly enticing, their health will ultimately determine the dynamic of the duo. 

Chubb suffered a gruesome leg injury in the second game of the 2023 season and wasn't cleared to return until midway through the 2024 season. Upon his return, Chubb didn't display the same burst, which may have led to him remaining unsigned so deep into the offseason. 

Despite his sluggish 2024 season, the former Brown believes that he is fully recovered from his injuries and is ready to make good on the Texans' investment in him. 

"It's all behind me," Chubb told reporters. "Injuries happen. With what happened, it takes about two years to really get back. So, I'm over the hump. I'm feeling as good as I have been in a long time."

Although his days as a starter are likely behind him, Chubb has a chance to elevate the Texans' offense in 2025 and provides the team with another bruising back to wear down defenses. 

Plus, after experiencing a revolving door of quarterbacks in Cleveland, Chubb will finally have a chance to share a backfield with a franchise quarterback in C.J. Stroud. 

The Texans kick off their 2025 season against the Los Angeles Rams at So-Fi Stadium on Sept. 7.