David Montgomery Returns to Practice For Texans

The Houston Texans received some encouraging news on Thursday as running back David Montgomery returned to practice for the first time since suffering a groin injury against the Tennessee Titans in Week 5.

Montgomery's return to the practice field is an important development for a Houston offense that has been dealing with questions surrounding their running back depth and lackluster rushing attack. While his participation doesn't necessarily mean he'll be ready to return to game action immediately, getting back on the field is a positive step in his recovery.

The Texans haven't had an easy task trying to replace Montgomery's absence over the past several weeks, forcing them to work through different options in the backfield and rely on C.J. Stroud and the passing game. His injury has been particularly notable considering the Texans sent Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Detroit Lions for the running back, while also inking him to a two-year, $16.5 million extension.

Houston's offense has had plenty of attention surrounding Stroud, but having a reliable rushing attack remains an important part of keeping the offense balanced.

Montgomery's return gives him an opportunity to build back toward game speed, get comfortable with the offense again and work his way toward being the star tailback Houston invested in him to be.

However, the Texans will need to be cautious with his recovery. Groin injuries can be difficult to manage and tend to linger, particularly for running backs who consistently need to change direction and absorb contact. Houston will want to make sure Montgomery is healthy enough to handle those demands before putting him back into his usual heavy workload.

His practice participation over the coming days should provide a better indication of where things stand. Whether he is able to progress to a full participant or remains limited will be something worth watching as the Texans evaluate his availability for this upcoming Sunday.

For now, Thursday's return is a welcome development for a Houston team that could certainly use a playmaker in the backfield.

The Texans still have to determine what his return will look like and how quickly he can work his way back into the rotation. Nevertheless, getting Montgomery back involved in practice is a step in the right direction for Houston as they look to have the backfield closer to full strength for the second half of the season.