The Houston Texans’ offseason work to revamp their rushing attack meant parting ways with a reliable contributor like Dare Ogunbowale.
Ogunbowale was not a star or even a starter for the Texans during his tenure. Still, the Texans coaching staff entrusted him with critical situations and downs. That is how the former undrafted free agent lasted four seasons in Houston, his longest stint with any team.
Fittingly, Ogunbowale will cross paths with the Texans again very soon.
Raiders Sign Former Texans RB Dare Ogunbowale
GettyDare Ogunbowale was a versatile contributor for the Texans.
The Texans were Ogunbowale’s fourth NFL team. The 32-year-old playmaker began his career with Washington. He spent time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars before the Texans and now the Las Vegas Raiders.
“The #Raiders signed veteran RB Dare Ogunbowale, who worked out for them recently,” NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported on X on August 6.
Garafolo called Ogunbowale “an experienced, versatile add to the backfield in Vegas.”
Ogunbowale tallied 295 yards and 2 touchdowns on 91 carries, adding another 396 yards and 1 TD as a pass-catcher. He was their third-down option and a threat in the passing game, allowing the team to be versatile even in must-have situations.
Ogunbowale was an even bigger contributor on special teams, which is where he provides most of his value.
The Texans will face Ogunbowale and the Raiders in their second preseason game.
In Vegas, he joins rookie No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza at QB and 2025 No. 6 pick Ashton Jeanty in the backfield. Ogunbowale’s veteran presence and versatility could prove to be a valuable asset for a young roster.
Texans RB Room Navigating Injury
GettyThe Texans are inexperienced behind David Montgomery, Woody Marks, and Jawhar Jordan.
Ogunbowale finding a new NFL home is noteworthy for the Texans, who suffered their first injury setback of training camp at the running back position.
British Brooks, who also operates as the fullback for the Texans, suffered a broken hand and is expected to miss roughly three weeks. The Texans still have their top trio of David Montgomery, Woody Marks, and Jawhar Jordan.
Their only other in-house options are inexperienced, though.
Ogunbowale would have been a fine solution for RB4 for the Texans, given his versatility and, of course, experience in the offense.
Former Trusted Texans Playmaker Joins No. 1 Overall Pick on Raiders