Houston, July 27, 2025
News Summary
Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon has landed on the non-football injury list due to a foot injury sustained during offseason workouts. His absence raises concerns that he may miss the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams. Mixon’s injury has already kept him out of team activities and may impact the Texans’ offensive strategy. In response, the team has signed veteran running back Nick Chubb to bolster their backfield. As they prepare for the new season, the Texans are also evaluating other options amidst injuries in their roster.
Houston
Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon is expected to miss significant time due to a foot injury, landing him on the non-football injury list after he sustained the injury during offseason workouts. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport has reported that Mixon will be reevaluated closer to the start of the regular season, with concerns mounting that he could miss the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on September 7.
Mixon’s injury has already kept him out of the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp, raising doubts about his availability as the Texans prepare for the new season. In the previous season, Mixon made a considerable impact, rushing for 1,016 yards on 256 carries and scoring 11 rushing touchdowns. His performance earned him his second Pro Bowl selection. Additionally, he contributed in the passing game by catching 36 passes for 309 yards and one touchdown.
Mixon was traded to the Texans from the Cincinnati Bengals before the start of the 2024 season. His vital role last year placed significant reliance on him, making the prospect of his absence even more impactful for the team. Historically, Mixon has faced injury challenges; in 2024, he missed three games due to an ankle injury.
In preparation for Mixon’s potential absence, the Texans have signed veteran running back Nick Chubb to strengthen their backfield. Chubb, who agreed to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million after several seasons with the Cleveland Browns, is a four-time Pro Bowler but has also struggled with injury, including a significant knee issue in 2023. Chubb returned to form last year, managing 332 rushing yards and scoring three touchdowns.
The Texans’ running back roster is further complicated by the status of Dameon Pierce, who is also dealing with a physical issue that affects his participation in the lineup. Additionally, rookie Woody Marks, a fourth-round draft pick in 2025, aims to earn a position on the team as they navigate their strategy without Mixon.
As the Texans prepare for the upcoming season, the coaching staff is focusing on adapting their offensive strategy to compensate for the potential loss of Mixon. The team’s ability to perform effectively will hinge on how well they integrate Chubb and other running backs amid these challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Joe Mixon?
Joe Mixon is on the non-football injury list because of a foot injury sustained during offseason workouts, and he is expected to miss significant time, potentially including Week 1 of the regular season.
How did Joe Mixon’s injury impact the Texans?
Mixon’s absence could significantly affect the Texans’ offensive strategy as he was a key player last season, contributing greatly to their rushing and receiving yards.
What are the Texans doing to manage Joe Mixon’s potential absence?
The Texans have signed veteran running back Nick Chubb to strengthen their backfield, and they are also evaluating other options, including rookies and injured players like Dameon Pierce.
Key Features of Joe Mixon’s Situation:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury Status | Foot injury, on non-football injury list |
| Expected Recovery Time | Significant time; reevaluate closer to regular season |
| Potential Impact | Possible absence from season opener on September 7 |
| Performance Last Season | 1,016 rushing yards, 256 carries, 11 rushing touchdowns |
| Signed Backup | Nick Chubb (1-year, $2.5 million contract) |
| Other Running Backs | Dameon Pierce (PUP status), Woody Marks (rookie) |
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