Houston's backfield in 2025 is a high-variance gamble. Mixon is carrying injury red flags and could open the door for Nick Chubb and rookie Woody Marks, with Dameon Pierce lurking as an occasional early-down option. Additions like Christian Kirk and the Texans’ rookie receivers signal a pass-heavy tilt, potentially compressing rushing volume further. The overall vibe: avoid overpaying for the Texans’ RBs in standard formats unless Mixon’s health dramatically improves or Chubb seizes a clear lead role early.

Meanwhile, the backfield’s upside hinges on who stays healthy and how the new offensive staff distributes carries. If Mixon misses extended time, Chubb likely sees the lion’s share while Marks handles change-of-pace duties; Pierce could steal some work in gaps, and Kirk’s presence could keep defenses honest without unleashing a true feature-back rush game. In dynasty, Marks’ long-term ceiling is still a question mark, while Kirk’s arrival could bolster Texans’ offensive efficiency and passing-game volume, indirectly supporting all playmakers.

Houston Texans returned to work after a preseason win, easing back into action with key players ramping up from injuries. Cam Robinson’s leg setback appears manageable as he rejoined practice, with Aireontae Ersery stepping in at left tackle and a fluid front five still being sculpted by head coach DeMeco Ryans. The unit looked to lock in protections while remaining adaptable, as rookie Jake Andrews and Ed Ingram continued to mesh with Laken Tomlinson and Tytus Howard. Houston also added veteran WR depth by signing Juwann Winfree, following the trade of John Metchie III, signaling a practical rebuild with a flexible offense and a roster navigating a tight preseason cap.

Stroud’s first real look in Nick Caley’s offense came in a 20-3 preseason win over Carolina, and the rookie delivered a clean, pocket‑savvy sequence: 6‑of‑8 for 44 yards and a fourth‑down TD to Collins, with time afforded by a rebuilt O‑line. The day also showcased a run game that flashed power from Chubb’s five carries for 25 yards. Injuries limited exposure, notably Mixon, Pierce, Howard and Robinson, prompting Aireontae Ersery to slide into a prominent left‑tackle role. The result: growing optimism about Houston’s path to a more competent attack, even if plans stay vanilla in the exhibitions. The team isn’t banking on Week 1 perfection, but joint practices with Detroit and a likely final tune‑up against the Lions will be telling as the offense aims to move beyond its divisional disappointment and toward a real ascent this season.

Houston’s backfield signs a high-variance path for 2025 fantasy drafts. Nick Chubb leads the Texans’ ground game while Joe Mixon heals, with Dameon Pierce stepping in as the likely early-down engine behind the uncertain offensive line. Dare Ogunbowale provides passing-game familiarity, but the rookie Woody Marks is the sleeper the lineup hints at, thanks to USC-era receiving chops and multi-down potential. Jawhar Jordan also looms as a development piece, while Marks’ upside in PPR formats keeps him squarely in the conversation for late-round targets.

Chubb’s pedigree and lead-back role offer week-to-week floor early on, but recent injury history and the ambiguity of Houston’s run-blocking raise the ceiling and floor in tandem. Marks, meanwhile, is flagged as a viable three-down option who might emerge as Mixon’s absence prolongs, giving him massive upside in PPR formats at a modest cost. Pierce remains the one to watch for an immediate Week 1 role if the injury timetable pushes Mixon deeper into the season. The draft strategy boils down to patience for Marks and opportunistic pull for Chubb if you need immediate help behind Mixon’s absence.

In this dynamic, managers should weigh Chubb for immediate value against Marks for late-season upside. If Mixon’s return is delayed, Marks and Pierce could anchor a better-than-expected Texans’ committee, especially in a pass-friendly scheme. If you’re drafting with a patient build, Marks’ upside makes him an enticing late-round gamble; if you need Week 1 reliability, Chubb remains the safer anchor, with Pierce offering a floor-raising option in the early part of the season.

The Houston Texans are gearing up for their 2025 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium, just 31 days away. In anticipation, the team is highlighting players who have donned the number 31 throughout its history. Currently, the number belongs to running back Dameon Pierce. After recovering from the PUP list, Pierce is looking to make a significant impact in his contract year as a formidable option alongside Pro Bowler Joe Mixon. Historically, players like Tyron Johnson and Roderick Johnson have also worn the number, adding to its legacy.