The Houston Texans received a welcome boost on Thursday as veteran running back Nick Chubb returned to the field in a limited capacity after missing Wednesday’s practice with a foot issue. The timing is critical for the Texans (3‑5) as they prepare for a pivotal Week 10 clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars. With starting quarterback C.J. Stroud sidelined due to a concussion, Chubb’s availability takes on heightened importance for Houston’s backfield game plan.
Player status and team context
Chubb was listed on Wednesday’s injury report as Did Not Practice (DNP) due to a sore foot. On Thursday, he upgraded to Limited Participant (LP) and was seen cutting and moving fluidly during drills — a positive sign when weighed against recent injury history.
Since joining the Texans this offseason, Chubb has been relied upon more heavily with veteran Joe Mixon unavailable. Though exact 2025 in‑season numbers are limited publicly, his presence was expected to solidify Houston’s ground game.
Given Stroud’s concussion, backup quarterback Davis Mills is expected to start, adding further importance to Chubb being ready.
Quotes or reactions from coaches/analysts
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has publicly expressed optimism about Chubb’s return and performance in camp: “Nick has been consistent … he’s just all‑around solid, consistent.”
Team insiders and practice footage shared on social media suggest Chubb handled Thursday’s session without visible discomfort — a notable upgrade from earlier in the week when his status was uncertain.
How it affects the Texans’ game plan
Chubb’s availability will influence Houston’s offensive identity heading into Week 10. With Mills under center, offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik is expected to lean on ball‑control and short‑yardage efficiency. A healthy Chubb allows the Texans to keep the clock moving and relieve pressure on a secondary quarterback.
If Chubb is limited or unavailable, rookie Woody Marks would likely see an increased role. Marks has shown flashes, but lacks experience against a defense like Jacksonville’s front seven. Without Chubb at full strength, Houston may shift to more screens, quick outs and passing‑game workarounds to compensate.
Given the Jaguars also have key personnel concerns, the running game becomes a mutual focal point. Chubb being ready gives Houston a stronger chance to control tempo and reduce mistakes.
Upcoming announcements and matches
The Texans will release the final injury report Friday ahead of Sunday’s kickoff, giving clarity on whether Chubb upgrades to Full Participant (FP). If he practices fully Friday, his status for the game will likely be active.
Houston faces the Jaguars in Week 10 on Sunday at (time & venue). Outcome of this game has playoff‑implication potential for the Texans, making every available weapon — especially Chubb — vital.
Sources
Houston Texans official injury report – Week 10 vs Jaguars.
Sports Illustrated: “Houston Texans Running Back Nick Chubb Provides Update on His Health”.
SI.com: “New Texans RB Nick Chubb: Previous injuries ‘all behind me
