Running back targets for the Houston Texans in free agency
Potential running back alternatives available to the Texans as free agents.
The Houston Texans’ offense, which had been among the weakest in the league for the previous few seasons, suddenly became one of the most thrilling in 2023. C.J. Stroud, their star rookie quarterback, was largely responsible for their success with his ability to regularly make plays.
Although the Texans offense appeared invincible at times, this offseason the running back position needs to be addressed. Leading the way in the run game was former Buffalo Bill Devin Singletary, who rushed for 898 yards and four touchdowns to lead Houston.
Even though his run blocking was below average for the whole season, Singletary was still able to create plays, so if it makes sense for both parties, the Texans should consider re-signing him.
When the day of free agency draws near, take into account these few options:
First choice: Saquon Barkley
Since his arrival in the NFL in 2018, Saquon Barkley has established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic running backs. Barkley, who is just 27 years old, has the potential to elevate the Texans’ offense to a new level, much like Christian McCaffrey did for the 49ers.
Barkley appears to be a wonderful fit for C.J. Stroud, the Pro Bowl quarterback, and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s offense.
OPTION TWO: JOSH JACOBS: Two years have passed since Jacobs’ amazing 1,600+ yard, 12-touchdown campaign that saw him lead the league in running. Given his prospective price tag, this might be a reach for Houston, but the Texans need to surround their quarterback with as much skill as possible, and one of the greatest in the league is in Jacobs.
Third option: André Swift
At the tender age of 25, D’Andre Swift is fresh off a Pro Bowl campaign in which he amassed over 1,000 yards and five touchdowns in his running game. Swift is not just significantly less expensive than Barkley and Jacobs, but he also has a ton of unrealized potential.
Fixing their rushing offense is arguably the Texans’ top objective this summer. The good news is that there is plenty of opportunity for development because the Texans’ offensive line was not totally healthy for the whole season.
Finding the greatest running back available for Slowik’s scheme is the current objective, and it shouldn’t be too difficult considering that, with C.J. Stroud at quarterback, Houston may become a favorite destination for free agents in the years to come.
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