The Houston Texans claimed wide receiver Nikko Remigio off waivers on November 13, 2026, and waived running back Dare Ogunbowale to open a roster spot. The team announced Remigio’s claim and other roster moves, then confirmed Ogunbowale’s release.
Ogunbowale, 32, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent and has played for the Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, and Texans over 10 seasons. He has recorded 594 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 177 carries, along with 853 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 110 catches. He has also contributed on special teams.
Ogunbowale became a fan favorite in Houston after filling in for injured kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn during the 2023 season. He made a 29-yard field goal to give the Texans a 33–30 lead over the Buccaneers. Houston went on to win, 39–37.
## Woody Marks Returns to Practice
Waiving Ogunbowale may have created room for Remigio, but the move also coincided with encouraging news about running back Woody Marks. Marks missed practice Thursday with a knee injury after being limited the previous day, but returned to the field Friday and was reported ready to play against the Cleveland Browns.
Starting running back David Montgomery also returned to practice in a limited capacity before practicing again Friday. He has been out since Week 5, leaving the Texans without a chance to determine the best backfield balance between him and Marks.
Before Montgomery’s injury, Houston’s ground game had prompted questions about whether the team might adjust its running-back rotation. Marks could still have a significant role when Montgomery returns. A possible split could favor Marks 60–40, or the workload could be divided evenly, with offensive coordinator Nick Caley riding the hot hand.
## Texans’ Running Back Options
If Marks or Montgomery is unavailable, the Texans can turn to Emari Demercado, who has previously played for the Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys, and Kansas City Chiefs. Houston also has undrafted rookie Josh Pitsenberger on its practice squad.
Ogunbowale could potentially return to the Texans’ practice squad. If he does, the team could elevate him to the active roster up to three times during the regular season. Those elevations reset for the postseason, though Houston would first need to qualify.
The Texans’ immediate focus is their Week 10 matchup with the Browns, who are led by former Houston starting quarterback Deshaun Watson.
