The Houston Texans are the class of the AFC South as they have won the division in each of the last two seasons and are the favorite to do so again in 2025.
One of the biggest reasons for Houston's success has been the explosive offense the front office has put together as they have legitimate stars in place at quarterback in CJ Stroud, running back in Joe Mixon, and wide receiver in Nico Collins. The supporting cast around those pieces is just as important as the depth the Texans have, especially at the skill positions, which is quite impressive.
Houston GM Nick Caserio has been the architect of this roster since joining the franchise in 2021, and he added to the list of impressive signings he's made this offseason. While the biggest splashes made by the Texans came in the trenches, Houston committed over $21 million in salary to OT Cam Robinson and DE Mario Williams this offseason, their best value signing came in the backfield and adds another threat for opposing defenses to try to contain.
All-Pro RB Nick Chubb Could Be the Texans' Best Value Signing of 2025
Joe Mixon is the straw that stirs the drink for Houston's rushing attack, but they relied on him far too much during the 2024 season. Not only did Mixon have a very high snap share of 65% but he accounted for over 73% of the Texans' total carries. Having one player take on that much of the load not only makes him more susceptible to injury, but it also puts the team in danger of having no reliable answer if, God forbid, an injury did occur.
This is why signing two-time All-Pro running back Nick Chubb to a one-year, $2.5 million contract is undoubtedly the best value signing Houston made this offseason. Yes, Chubb has a lengthy injury history. There is no denying that. However, as a backup to Mixon, who noticeably was not the same player during the stretch run of the regular season as he was in September and October, it is hard to think of a better veteran option that could have been brought in at that low of a cost.
For his career, Chubb has rushed for 6,843 yards and has scored 51 rushing touchdowns. He is also enough of a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield, something that Mixon did quite a bit of last season, where he should fit all aspects of the offensive game plan.
Limiting the number of hits Mixon has to take during the regular season will only make him more effective in the postseason. Chubb should address that issue as he is a known commodity whom DeMeco Ryans and the coaching staff can feel comfortable calling on when needed.
Having a player in a reserve role who is capable of providing that level of security and confidence is a luxury for the Texans and one that they'll enjoy at an extremely low cost. Assuming Chubb can stay healthy for the 2025 campaign, his addition could wind up being an absolute steal for Houston.