David Montgomery Exits Texans Game With Groin Injury

Houston Texans running back David Montgomery left the team's Week 5 matchup against the Tennessee Titans with a groin injury on October 11, 2026, raising uncertainty about his availability for the remainder of the game. The Texans listed Montgomery as questionable to return after he recorded five carries for 11 yards in the first half. NBC Sports reported that Montgomery exited during the second quarter.

With his status unresolved, Woody Marks was expected to handle the lead running back duties while Houston awaited further information about the injury. The Texans had not announced a longer-term recovery timeline in the initial update reported by The Big Lead. His questionable designation applied to the remainder of the Titans game and did not establish whether he would miss subsequent matchups.

Montgomery entered Week 5 with 127 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 47 carries through his first four games, according to The Big Lead. He had also contributed as a receiver, providing another option in an offense led by quarterback C.J. Stroud.

His production had declined following Houston's season opener against Buffalo. According to Yahoo Sports, Montgomery recorded 60 yards and three total touchdowns in that game, but managed just 67 rushing yards on 27 carries without a touchdown over the next three contests. Against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4, Montgomery carried 10 times for 24 yards and added 19 receiving yards in Houston's loss, Yahoo Sports reported. His limited rushing production continued to highlight the team's difficulties establishing a consistent ground game.

Montgomery joined Houston ahead of the 2026 season after spending the previous three years with the Detroit Lions, according to The Big Lead. The Texans added the veteran back to strengthen their rushing attack and complement their younger offensive players. His departure against Tennessee left Houston needing to adjust its running back rotation if he could not return. Marks was identified as the immediate replacement for the lead role, while the team awaited further clarity on Montgomery's condition.