David Montgomery is facing mounting pressure in Houston as injuries and questions about his role threaten to complicate his season with the Texans. The veteran running back’s availability has become a concern at a time when the team needs consistency from its ground game and reliable options in the backfield.
Montgomery’s situation has drawn attention because a groin injury has affected his ability to practice and potentially contribute on game day. He missed Wednesday’s practice on Oct. 14, raising further questions about his readiness for the team’s upcoming matchup. Any extended absence could force Houston to reconsider its running back rotation and redistribute carries among the available players.
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
The injury also adds pressure to a position where production and durability are essential. Running backs must handle repeated contact while providing dependable yardage, helping sustain drives and giving the offense balance. When a key option cannot practice consistently, coaches have less certainty about how to distribute touches and prepare the game plan.
Houston could turn to other backs already on its roster if Montgomery remains unavailable or struggles to return to full strength. Those alternatives would have an opportunity to earn more carries and demonstrate they can contribute in a larger role. Increased competition could make it more difficult for the veteran to retain a prominent place in the rotation once he is healthy.
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
Montgomery has been placed on the hot seat after his performance for Houston this season. This is detailed in an analysis by Bill Barnwell for ESPN.
Montgomery left last week’s win over the Titans in the first half with a groin injury, potentially opening up the door to a larger role for Woody Marks. The second-year pro had what qualifies as a great game on the ground for a Texans back, turning 15 carries into 62 yards while adding four catches for 23 yards as a receiver. The Texans have been hesitant to turn the lead role over to Marks, but Montgomery’s struggles and the groin injury might leave them no choice.
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Montgomery left last week’s win over the Titans in the first half with a groin injury, potentially opening up the door to a larger role for Woody Marks. The second-year pro had what qualifies as a great game on the ground for a Texans back, turning 15 carries into 62 yards while adding four catches for 23 yards as a receiver. The Texans have been hesitant to turn the lead role over to Marks, but Montgomery’s struggles and the groin injury might leave them no choice.
Still, an injury alone does not determine a player’s long-term standing. Montgomery’s ability to recover, return to practice and deliver effective performances will be important in shaping how the coaching staff evaluates his role. If he can regain his availability and produce consistently, he could quiet concerns and reestablish himself as a dependable contributor.
For now, the situation leaves Montgomery with little room for setbacks as the season progresses. Houston must weigh his health against the need to keep its offense productive, while other running backs could benefit from any opportunity created by his absence.
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