Patriots Should Consider Signing Veteran RB Nick Chubb

The four-time Pro Bowler could provide depth and experience to New England's backfield.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:03pm

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The New England Patriots should consider signing veteran running back Nick Chubb in free agency this offseason. Chubb, a four-time Pro Bowler, is coming off an injury-plagued stint with the Houston Texans but could provide valuable depth and experience to the Patriots' backfield alongside Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

Why it matters

The Patriots have had issues with injuries at the running back position in recent years, and adding a proven veteran like Chubb could give them insurance and bolster their ground game. Chubb also has prior experience working with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which could help facilitate a smooth transition.

The details

Chubb was a standout player for the Cleveland Browns from 2018 to 2023, rushing for 6,843 yards and 51 touchdowns. However, he suffered a serious knee injury in 2023 that sidelined him for the entire season. When he returned in 2024, he broke his foot, ultimately ending his time with the Browns. Last season, Chubb joined the Houston Texans, where he played in 15 games and rushed for 506 yards with three touchdowns.

  • Chubb was selected by the Browns in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
  • Chubb suffered a knee injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season, sidelining him for the entire year.
  • Chubb joined the Houston Texans last offseason and played in 15 games during the 2025 season.

The players

Nick Chubb

A four-time Pro Bowl running back who has played for the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans over his seven-year NFL career.

Mike Vrabel

The current head coach of the New England Patriots, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Browns in 2024.

Rhamondre Stevenson

The Patriots' starting running back, who has shown promise in his first two NFL seasons.

TreVeyon Henderson

A young running back the Patriots drafted in 2025 to provide depth and competition in the backfield.

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What they’re saying

“Chubb also worked with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel in 2024, when Vrabel joined the Browns as an assistant coach. There could be a connection between the two.”

— Daniel Fisher, Author

What’s next

The Patriots will need to evaluate Chubb's health and fit within their offense as they consider signing the veteran running back in free agency.

The takeaway

Adding a proven veteran like Nick Chubb could provide valuable depth and experience to the Patriots' backfield, especially given the injury history of their current running backs. Chubb's prior connection with head coach Mike Vrabel could also help facilitate a smooth transition to New England.