Houston Texans Reach Verbal Agreement with $24 Million Running Back to Solve Offensive Struggles

Houston, Texas - January 2026

In a blockbuster move to address their ongoing offensive struggles, the Houston Texans have reached a verbal agreement with running back Alvin Kamara, worth $24 million. Sources confirm that the deal is nearly complete, with only a routine medical examination and final trade details standing between the Texans and an upgraded backfield that could revitalize their ground game and support CJ Stroud in 2026.

The Texans have long struggled to establish a consistent and explosive rushing attack, finishing the 2025 regular season ranked near the bottom in rushing success rate (29th) and total rushing yards (around 1,593 team total, with leading rusher Woody Marks at just 655 yards). Despite solid contributions from veterans like Joe Mixon (before injuries) and Nick Chubb, the team's ground game remained underwhelming, contributing to offensive inconsistencies, high turnovers from Stroud, and an early playoff exit in the divisional round against the New England Patriots. After a promising but ultimately disappointing season, the Texans' front office, led by GM Nick Caserio, quickly recognized the need to add a dynamic, proven running back to balance the offense and take pressure off their young quarterback.

Alvin Kamara: The Solution to the Texans’ Offensive Woes

Alvin Kamara, the veteran running back from the New Orleans Saints, had a strong track record as a dual-threat back before recent seasons, excelling as both a runner and pass-catcher with elite vision, burst, and receiving ability. His skill set makes him a perfect fit for Houston's offensive scheme under OC Bobby Slowik, providing a much-needed explosive element in the backfield to complement Stroud's dynamic passing game and the elite weapons like Nico Collins and Stefon Diggs.

The Texans, with their limited cap space and focus on protecting Stroud, have structured the potential trade/deal in a way that ensures they can upgrade the rushing attack without overextending financially. At $24 million (projected value based on trade proposals and remaining contract considerations), Kamara's addition would diversify the Texans' offense, allowing them to establish a more balanced attack, improve red-zone efficiency, and create more opportunities for play-action passing.

Texans Look to Reclaim Offensive Balance

The Texans have made it clear that improving their offensive production - particularly the run game and protection for Stroud - is a top priority heading into the 2026 season. With the addition of Kamara, they aim to return to a more balanced offensive approach, which has been missing despite an elite defense (top-5 unit). Kamara's ability to catch passes out of the backfield will also provide Stroud with a reliable check-down option, making it easier to keep defenses honest and reduce sacks/turnovers.

By addressing their offensive struggles, the Texans are strengthening their chances of returning deeper into the playoffs in 2026, as they look to build on their young core and contend for an AFC title.

Final Step: Medical Examination and Trade Finalization

With the verbal agreement in place, all that remains for the Texans and Alvin Kamara is the completion of the standard medical examination and finalization of trade compensation (likely involving draft picks or other assets to the Saints). Once the medical checks are cleared and details ironed out, the deal will be officially executed, and Kamara will become the newest member of the Texans' roster.

This move marks a critical step in the Texans' efforts to build a more potent and balanced offense for the upcoming season. Fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement, as Kamara's addition could prove to be the missing piece for Houston to elevate from playoff contender to legitimate Super Bowl threat.