The Houston Texans are gearing up to make waves in the running back market as free agency kicks off on March 11th. With their current lineup facing challenges-Joe Mixon sidelined all of 2025 with a mysterious foot injury, Nick Chubb not quite himself, and rookie Woody Marks showing promise but not game-changing prowess-the Texans are in search of a boost in their ground game. Their only 100-yard rushing performance last season came courtesy of Jawhar Jordan in Week 15 against the Cardinals.
Ranking 22nd in rushing yards per game and tied for second-worst in touchdowns, it's clear that offensive coordinator Nick Caley needs to revitalize the rushing attack for the upcoming season.
Enter Breece Hall, the New York Jets' standout running back, who is on the cusp of free agency. Hall's been a bright spot in an otherwise struggling Jets team, which has gone 22-46 since his debut. Houston could be eyeing Hall as a potential game-changer, but recent developments have complicated that pursuit.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Jets are considering their options with Hall, including potentially tagging him or negotiating a long-term deal. The transition tag, expected to be around $11.7 million, is a possibility, which would complicate Houston's ability to negotiate freely.
Let's break down the implications of these tags. The Non-Exclusive Tag allows Hall to sign with another team, but the Jets can match the offer or receive two first-round picks if he leaves.
The Exclusive Tag binds him entirely to the Jets, preventing any other negotiations. The Transition Tag lets the Jets match any offer but offers no compensation if Hall departs.
If tagged, Hall and the Jets have until July 15th to negotiate a long-term deal, or he plays on a one-year contract. For Houston, already juggling salary cap constraints, starting negotiations at $11.7 million could be a tough pill to swallow.
Should the Jets decide to tag Hall, the Texans might need to explore other options. Names like Tyler Allgeier and Rico Dowdle could emerge as potential targets for Houston as they look to strengthen their backfield.