The Houston Texans sit at 3-5, mirroring their 2025 record, with a critical showdown against the Cleveland Browns looming next week. The Browns currently hold a 1.5-game lead in the playoff race, making this matchup pivotal for Houston’s postseason hopes. As the team navigates this tight divisional battle, fans are increasingly vocal about roster decisions, particularly regarding the running back room. Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle addresses these concerns in his weekly Wednesday mailbag, offering insights into the coaching staff’s true priorities.
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A dominant question from fans asks whether David Montgomery will reclaim the bulk of the snaps upon his return or if Woody Marks has secured the RB1 role. Alexander firmly advises against assuming fan pressure dictates coaching decisions. “I know fans like to think that they’ve bullied the coaches into doing certain things, but let’s not get cocky,” Alexander writes. He clarifies that while the staff hears the noise, they are not actively monitoring social media for strategic cues. This distinction is crucial for understanding why the current usage of Marks may persist regardless of external sentiment.
Beyond the RB debate, the mailbag also tackles the puzzling absence of Joe Mixon from active practice work. Fans are eager to know why the veteran is not working out, a factor that could impact depth and veteran leadership during this crucial stretch. Alexander’s responses highlight the disconnect between fan perception and internal team operations, urging supporters to trust the process rather than overreacting to short-term performance metrics. As the Texans prepare for Cleveland, clarity on these personnel decisions will be vital for maintaining momentum in the division.
Source: Yahoo Sports
