Houston is reuniting with a veteran who spent the past four seasons with the Texans, adding Dare Ogunbowale from the Raiders’ practice squad.
The Houston Texans are bringing back a familiar face.
Houston is signing running back Dare Ogunbowale off the Las Vegas Raiders’ practice squad, reuniting with a veteran who spent the majority of his career with the organization. The move gives the Texans another experienced player who has already spent significant time in their system.
Ogunbowale originally entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Texans in 2017. Although his first stint in Houston was brief, he eventually returned to the organization in 2022 and remained with the team through the 2025 season.
Over those four seasons, Ogunbowale appeared in 63 games for Houston, contributing as a running back, receiver and special teams player. He became particularly valuable because of his willingness to handle the less glamorous parts of the game.
That versatility is likely part of what made the Texans interested in bringing him back.
Ogunbowale played all 17 games for Houston last season, recording 11 carries for 25 yards and a touchdown while adding 10 receptions for 76 yards. He also made a significant impact on special teams, finishing with 16 tackles and a fumble recovery.
His offensive production has never been the primary reason for his longevity in the NFL.
Instead, Ogunbowale has carved out a role as a dependable veteran capable of contributing in multiple areas. Throughout his career, he has totaled 594 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 177 carries while adding 109 receptions for 850 yards and two touchdowns.
That experience could be especially useful for Houston.
The Texans have already dealt with some inconsistencies on special teams early in the season, making the addition of a player who has spent years contributing in that phase potentially important. Ogunbowale is not expected to suddenly become a major part of Houston's offensive game plan, but his ability to fill multiple roles gives the coaching staff another option.
There is also value in bringing back a player who already knows the organization.
Ogunbowale spent four seasons with the Texans before joining the Raiders for the 2026 season. Las Vegas signed him to its practice squad in August, and he remained there through the opening weeks of the season.
Now, he gets another opportunity in Houston.
The Texans have turned to familiar players before when looking to stabilize their roster, and Ogunbowale fits that mold. He understands the expectations of the organization, has experience in the offense and has spent years proving he can contribute without needing a large role.
For a team looking for help across the roster, bringing back Ogunbowale gives Houston a veteran piece with plenty of familiarity.
And after spending last season in Houston, the 32-year-old is headed back to a place he already knows well.
