March 1, 2026, 10:11 a.m. CT

While the Houston Texans should still try to target a running back via the upcoming NFL draft, expect general manager Nick Caserio to target a proven name with free agency begins on March 11.

ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler recently shared tidbits from the week at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, revealing plans for several teams as they prepare for stage 2 of the offseason. As for the Texans, the consensus was evident that they plan to approach multiple running backs set to hit the market with a competitive offer to join the AFC South franchise this offseason.

And it’s not just names like Carolina’s Rico Dowdle and Atlanta’s Tyler Allgeier. Houston also plans to contract Seattle’s Kenneth Walker III and Jacksonville’s Travis Eitenne Jr.

 “Javonte Williams likely set the floor for negotiations for the top free agent running backs after agreeing to a strong deal that keeps him in Dallas and guarantees him $16 million over the next two seasons,” Graziano wrote. “The backs who sound like they have a good chance to top Williams’ number are:

Teams I expect to see gauge the free agent RB market include the Chiefs, Texans and Giants, among others.

Dowdle has been the top name linked to the Texans, especially given Caserio’s contract negotiations in the past. He’s coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in both Dallas and Carolina while being a split back in each formation. Houston could target him since the plan is to keep Woody Marks active as a stable No. 2 option entering Nick Caley’s offense in Year 2.

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But Walker, a two-time 1,000-yard runner and Super Bowl MVP, seems to be the top prize on the market. The Texans reportedly have interest in the former second-round pick and could be willing to go to war over other franchises to land his services, thus freeing up pressure off fourth-year Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Regardless of how Houston attacks the run game this offseason, it will have a new look to the its backfield this fall.