“You’re never going to rule out someone as near and dear to our hearts as Nick. And I would expect him to take another step, being a year removed from the knee injury. But I’d say a return is less likely, at least in the short term, with us right now.” Those were the words of Browns GM Andrew Berry earlier in May, leaving Nick Chubb’s future with the Browns up in the air. But football moves fast – by June, Chubb had found a new home with the Houston Texans. Now, with training camp in full swing and Joe Mixon’s Week 1 status in doubt after an injury, opportunity is knocking for the star RB.
After a quiet start to camp, Chubb is finally opening up. And his words about CJ Stroud and the Texans’ offense might just get fans excited. For the first time since joining the Texans, Nick Chubb is letting the world know how he feels about his new team. “I love most about the guys that surround me in the huddle,” Chubb said at Texans training camp. “The big guys up front, the receivers, tight ends, and CJ. A bunch of guys who play with intent, who love to practice, love to work hard and get better every day.” That last part – ” and CJ” – sticks out. Because this isn’t just any QB, this is CJ Stroud. The young phenom who’s already reshaping the Texans’ future.
And Stroud made it clear early on that he’s all-in on Chub, too. Back in minicamp, the QB admitted, “I told him I’ve been respecting his game since he was in college. Think he was a great back, and I think he could do some great things for us. I didn’t recognize him when I walked in. He’s very quiet. I kind of got nervous, because he’s been a baller since I was a kid. But I’m very excited to have him.” That mutual respect matters. Undoubtedly, Chubb isn’t just here to fill a roster spot.
September 29, 2024, Cypress, Texas, USA: Texans quarterback CJ STROUD 7 warms up before the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars game at NRG Stadium in Houston. Cypress USA – ZUMAg261 20240929_znp_g261_051 Copyright: xDomenicxGreyx
After seven brutal years in Cleveland – where he fought through two major knee injuries, a broken foot, and still left as the Browns’ third-leading rusher ever – this Texans deal is his shot at a fresh start. And Houston didn’t sign him for nostalgia. The one-year, $2.5 million contract (which could hit $5M with incentives) is a bet that the old Chubb still has juice left.
Chubb’s comeback isn’t just about the lovefest. After those first few gritty practices in Houston, the real test begins. And the man himself? Well, let’s just say he’s got a little something to say about how camp’s going…
Nick Chubb embraces the grind at Texans camp
You can hear it in his voice – that quiet determination. When Nick Chubb says, “I feel good, and it’s been great to come out here and play some more football,” he makes it sound simple. But anyone watching Texans camp knows better. This isn’t just about shaking off rust; it’s about proving he can still be that guy after years of brutal injuries. And Houston’s defense isn’t making it easy on him.
“It’s hard to get a first [down] when the defense is playing so good,” Chubb admitted. But true to form, he’s turning frustration into fuel. After every play, he’s pushing himself further – “every time I try to get a quick 10-yard burst after the play is done, just to help get in better shape.” That’s the Chubb way. No flash and excuses, just extra work when no one’s counting.
The stakes feel higher now. With Mixon’s foot injury looming over the backfield, Chubb knows the Texans might need him to carry the load sooner than expected. Last year’s 3.3 yards per carry? That’s not him. The guy who once averaged five yards every touch is still in there – he just needs time (and maybe a little grace) to find his rhythm again.
Camp struggles don’t scare him. They never have. What matters is the gleam in his eye when he says, “It’s been great getting back.” Because after everything – the knee surgeries, the broken foot, the quiet exit from Cleveland – he’s still in love with the grind. And if that doesn’t tell you everything about what’s coming next, just watch when the pads come on.
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