Nick Chubb Return Timeline, Latest Injury Update: Will He Play After Rib Issue?

Nick Chubb will miss the Houston Texans’ Week 15 game against the Arizona Cardinals due to a rib injury, according to the team’s final injury report released on December 14. The update confirms that Chubb was ruled out late in the week after being limited in practice.

The absence marks the first missed game of the season for the veteran running back. It also raises new questions around the Nick Chubb return timeline as Houston manages its backfield entering a critical stretch of the schedule.

Nick Chubb Return Timeline, Latest Injury Update Explained

The Texans confirmed on Sunday that Nick Chubb will not suit up for the Week 15 matchup at NRG Stadium. The decision was made after additional evaluation of a rib injury that surfaced late in the practice week.

Houston signed Chubb in June with measured expectations following multiple injury-shortened seasons in Cleveland. At 29, the Texans planned a managed workload rather than a feature role.

Before the injury, Chubb had appeared in every game this season. He carried the ball 115 times for 472 rushing yards and three touchdowns while splitting snaps with rookie Woody Marks.

The rib injury is not considered season-ending. However, the team has not provided a firm timetable for his return. The Nick Chubb return timeline remains week-to-week, with availability likely dependent on pain tolerance and recovery progress.

Head coach and medical staff opted for caution. Rib injuries often limit contact ability and ball security, especially for running backs who absorb frequent hits.

With Chubb sidelined, Woody Marks is expected to see the largest workload of his rookie season. Marks has logged 160 carries for 554 yards and two rushing touchdowns, adding 20 receptions for 196 yards and three receiving scores.

Despite increased usage, Marks has averaged 3.5 yards per carry. Houston has not relied heavily on explosive rushing plays, instead leaning on ball control and situational efficiency.

The Texans’ backfield depth will also include Dare Ogunbowale and Jawhar Jordan. Ogunbowale is a veteran special teams contributor with limited rushing volume across his career.

Jordan, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was elevated from the practice squad earlier this week. He has yet to record a regular-season carry.

How the Injury Shapes Houston’s Short-Term Plans

The Nick Chubb injury update changes Houston’s offensive balance for Week 15. Without their most experienced runner, the Texans may lean more on short passing concepts and tempo control.

The situation is further complicated by the continued absence of Joe Mixon, who has remained out with a season-long undisclosed injury. His unavailability elevated both Chubb and Marks earlier than expected.

Houston’s coaching staff has emphasized flexibility. Offensive adjustments are expected based on game flow rather than a strict rushing script.

Looking ahead, Chubb’s status for Week 16 will likely depend on midweek practice participation. Rib injuries can heal quickly, but setbacks are common with repeated contact.

There is no indication that injured reserve is being considered. The Texans view Chubb as a depth stabilizer and late-season option if healthy.

The Nick Chubb return timeline remains uncertain, but the Texans have made clear they will not rush him back. His availability beyond Week 15 will be monitored closely as Houston evaluates health and workload management.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Nick Chubb injury update?

Nick Chubb was ruled out of Week 15 with a rib injury after being limited late in the practice week. The Texans labeled his status as week-to-week.

Q2: What is Nick Chubb’s return timeline?

The team has not set a specific return date. His availability will depend on recovery progress and pain management.

Q3: Who replaces Nick Chubb in Week 15?

Woody Marks is expected to lead the backfield, with Dare Ogunbowale and Jawhar Jordan providing depth.

Q4: Is Nick Chubb’s injury considered serious?

The rib injury is not viewed as long-term. However, contact limitations make short-term absence common for running backs.

Q5: Did Nick Chubb miss games earlier this season?

No. Week 15 marks his first missed game of the 2025 season.