Dare Ogunbowale is returning to the Houston Texans before Week 4, giving the team four running backs ahead of its home game against the Dallas Cowboys. The move follows a short stay with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Ogunbowale played for Houston from 2022 through 2025, appearing in more than 60 games. His primary duties were on special teams, where he logged over 1,000 snaps across those four seasons. He also had 91 rushing attempts for 295 yards and three touchdowns. Ogunbowale was a team captain last season.
David Montgomery and Woody Marks are expected to handle most of the Texans’ offensive work at running back. British Brooks could remain ahead of Ogunbowale in the weekly order, so the veteran is not expected to immediately become one of Houston’s top offensive options.
The reason for the roster move was not clear in the report. Houston could be preparing for a possible injury at the position, although Week 4 injury information was not expected until after Wednesday’s practice. The team also could have sought an experienced depth player who can help on special teams.
Sports Illustrated reported that Ogunbowale offers leadership and special-teams experience, and coach DeMeco Ryans has repeatedly praised him.