The Houston Texans enter the 2026 NFL season with high expectations after building one of the league’s most promising young rosters. While much of the attention remains focused on the passing attack, the running game has emerged as the team’s potential X factor in determining how far Houston can go this season.
A productive rushing attack would give the Texans greater offensive balance while reducing pressure on the passing game in critical situations. Consistently moving the ball on the ground can control the tempo, extend drives and force opposing defenses to commit additional defenders near the line of scrimmage. That adjustment often creates favorable opportunities for explosive plays through the air.
Dec 14, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery (5) runs the ball against Los Angeles Rams cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. (1) during the second quarter at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Houston strengthened its backfield with the goal of establishing a more physical offensive identity. The addition of proven talent gives the coaching staff flexibility to rotate running backs while maintaining production throughout a game. Fresh legs and multiple rushing styles can create challenges for opposing defenses that struggle to adjust over four quarters.
The offensive line will also play a major role in determining whether the rushing attack reaches its full potential. Consistent run blocking allows ball carriers to reach the second level, where explosive gains become possible. A successful ground game also helps limit predictable passing situations, making it more difficult for defenses to generate pressure against the quarterback.
NFL Expert Names Running Game as Houston Texans’ 2026 Season X-Factor
Jun 9, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans running back David Montgomery arrives for the team’s minicamp at Houston Methodist Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
Houston’s running game has been hailed as the team’s x-factor for the new NFL season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Seth Walder for ESPN.
X factor for 2026: The running game. Last season, Houston had the second-least efficient ground attack in terms of EPA per play, and the lack of rushing production only made life more difficult for quarterback C.J. Stroud. The question is whether the changes to the offensive line and the addition of veteran running back David Montgomery can improve that aspect of the offense.
An improved running game could have benefits that extend well beyond rushing statistics. Longer possessions help keep the defense rested while allowing Houston to dictate game flow against quality opponents. Establishing balance on offense also creates greater flexibility in play calling, making it harder for defenses to anticipate what comes next in key situations.
The Texans possess the talent to compete with the NFL’s top teams, but maximizing the running game could elevate the offense to another level. If Houston consistently establishes the ground attack throughout the season, it may become the difference that transforms a talented playoff contender into a legitimate championship threat.