Houston Texans Face Big Question in 2026: Can They Slow David Montgomery?
Date Published
Houston Texans fans know how quickly a game can turn when a power back gets rolling. That is why early buzz around a 2026 matchup is focusing on one key issue: can the Texans keep David Montgomery from taking over the action? For Houston, the answer could shape everything from field position to game tempo.
Even in the offseason, this kind of matchup talk matters. Montgomery has built a reputation as a physical runner who wears down defenses and creates balance for his offense. If the Texans want to stay in control, they will need discipline at the line, clean tackling, and a plan that limits chunk gains on early downs.
Why the Houston Texans run defense is the focus
When analysts look ahead to games like this, they usually start in the trenches. Houston's front seven will likely carry the spotlight because stopping Montgomery is rarely about one defender making a play. Instead, it takes gap control, strong pursuit, and the ability to finish once contact is made.
That challenge becomes even bigger if Montgomery gets help from an efficient passing attack. Once a defense starts cheating toward the run, play-action can open the field in a hurry. So for the Texans, slowing the ground game would not just prevent rushing yards. It would also help protect the secondary and keep the whole defense in better position.
From a fan perspective, this is the kind of test that reveals a lot about a team. Houston has playoff expectations, and games against physical opponents often show whether a contender can handle four quarters of pressure. If the Texans win on first down and force longer situations, they can push the matchup in their favor.
What it means for Houston in 2026
The bigger picture is simple. Teams that stop the run consistently usually give themselves more chances late in games. That matters in a long NFL season, especially for a Texans squad trying to prove it belongs among the AFC's toughest teams.
Just as importantly, this conversation reflects the respect Houston is getting. National outlets are now breaking down how opponents match up with the Texans, not just whether Houston can compete. That shift says plenty about where the franchise stands heading into 2026.
There is still time before this matchup arrives, and plenty can change with injuries, roster moves, and weekly form. Still, the core question is already clear: if David Montgomery gets loose, Houston could be in for a long day. If the Texans bottle him up, they may control the pace and put themselves in position to make a statement.
This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.