Houston Texans running back situation is not as clear cut as originally thought

When the Houston Texans acquired veteran running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions, many assumed he would immediately become the unquestioned lead back. After all, Montgomery has built a reputation as one of the NFL‘s most reliable power runners, capable of handling a heavy workload while consistently producing in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

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But according to NFL Network reporter Jane Slater, David Montgomery and second-year RB Woody Marks are expected to split the lead back reps, creating what could become one of the more intriguing backfields in the NFL.

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Woody Marks Is Expected to Have a Major Role

Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Houston Texans running back Woody Marks (27) runs during the first half of an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The expectation after the Montgomery trade was that Houston had found its new workhorse. Instead, Slater reports that Woody Marks is expected to share lead-back responsibilities with the veteran.

That speaks volumes about how highly the Texans view Marks heading into the season. Houston appears prepared to feature him immediately, giving him an opportunity to carve out a significant role from Week 1.

He came on strong toward the end of his rookie year in 2025, so the Texans are hoping for more of the same.

What It Means for David Montgomery

A split backfield doesn’t diminish Montgomery’s value, but it does change expectations. He should still be heavily involved in early-down situations, short-yardage opportunities, and goal-line carries, areas where he has excelled throughout his career.

However, if Marks earns consistent touches between the 20-yard lines and contributes in the passing game, Montgomery may not see the volume many anticipated after arriving in Houston.

Instead of functioning as a traditional bell-cow running back, Montgomery could become part of a true two-man rotation.

Competition Could Benefit the Texans

For Houston, the arrangement makes plenty of sense. Sharing carries could help keep Montgomery fresh over the course of a 17-game season while allowing the explosive rookie to develop without carrying the entire workload.

If both backs perform as expected, the Texans could field one of the NFL’s deepest rushing attacks rather than relying on a single feature back. What once looked like a straightforward depth chart has quickly become much more interesting.

Houston isn’t preparing to hand the keys to David Montgomery alone. Instead, the Texans appear ready to let Montgomery and Woody Marks share the spotlight, creating a backfield that could become one of the league’s most surprisingly productive backfields.

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