WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W. Va. — The Houston Texans’ backfield has a new leader as Nick Chubb steps into the spotlight with Joe Mixon sidelined due to an ankle injury. Mixon, who was placed on the non-football injury list, has missed the entirety of training camp, opening the door for Chubb to assert himself as the primary running back.

Chubb, a four-time Pro Bowler, is determined to prove he’s still among the NFL’s elite despite nearing the age of 30—a point where many running backs historically decline. However, Chubb remains confident in his abilities, citing Derrick Henry’s success at 30 as evidence that age is just a number.

"The last few years have been a little rough for me," Chubb told ESPN. "I got a chance to go home, get a good offseason, then get back to who I am, and I’m ready to put it all together."

Chubb’s career has been marred by injuries, including a season-ending knee injury in 2023 and a foot injury in 2024. Despite these setbacks, he ranks fourth in rushing yards (6,843) since entering the NFL in 2018 and is tied for ninth in touchdowns (51).

In 2024, Chubb struggled to regain his form, failing to rush for over 60 yards in any game and posting career lows in yards per attempt (3.3) and percentage of carries gaining at least 10 yards (4.9%). However, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has praised Chubb’s physicality and dedication.

"What I hang my hat on with him is that this guy loves football," Ryans said. "He’s physical. He plays the right way. He prepares himself the right way. He’s a guy who can play physical behind his pads. He can eat out yardage."

With Mixon out and Dameon Pierce on the PUP list, Chubb has taken the majority of first-team reps, with Dare Ogunbowale occasionally stepping in for pass-catching plays. As the Texans prepare for their preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings, the team hopes to see glimpses of the dominant Chubb from his Cleveland Browns days.

Chubb’s journey is far from over, and this season could be a defining chapter in his career as he looks to rewrite his narrative and lead the Texans’ rushing attack.