Texans Face Tough Decision on Joe Mixon’s Future Amid Cap Concerns and Injury Uncertainty
Joe Mixon’s time in Houston could be nearing its end. After missing the entire 2025 season with a foot injury, the veteran running back finds himself in a cloud of uncertainty heading into the offseason - and the Texans may be ready to move on.
According to reports, Mixon has emerged as a top candidate to be released, with the team potentially saving around $8 million in cap space by cutting ties. That number looms large for a franchise looking to stay flexible financially, especially with other roster priorities on the table.
Texans general manager Nick Caserio called Mixon’s injury a “freak” occurrence, but even with that context, there hasn’t been much clarity from the organization about his recovery timeline or expected availability for 2026. Caserio has noted that the 29-year-old is putting in the work to return, but the lack of concrete updates has only fueled the speculation.
From a production standpoint, Mixon was still getting it done before the injury. In 2024, he rushed for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, while also adding over 300 receiving yards and another score through the air. Those are numbers that still carry weight - especially for teams in need of a veteran presence in the backfield.
If the Texans do move on, Mixon won’t be without suitors. Three teams stand out as logical fits: the Denver Broncos, Dallas Cowboys, and Kansas City Chiefs.
In Denver, the run game sputtered throughout 2025. RJ Harvey showed flashes, but the Broncos lacked a consistent between-the-tackles presence. Mixon could be a stabilizing force - a physical, experienced runner who’d complement Harvey well and give Sean Payton a reliable option in short-yardage and red zone situations.
Dallas, meanwhile, could be preparing to lose Javonte Williams in free agency. While Mixon might not match Williams’ burst at this stage of his career, he still brings a bruising style that would mesh with the Cowboys’ offensive identity. His ability to grind out tough yards and contribute in the passing game makes him an intriguing option if Dallas needs to pivot.
Then there’s Kansas City. With Patrick Mahomes returning from knee surgery, the Chiefs are expected to retool their offense to take some of the load off their quarterback.
That starts with the run game. Mixon wouldn’t need to be the star in Andy Reid’s system, but he could be a valuable piece - especially at a bargain price.
His pass-blocking, veteran savvy, and versatility could quietly solve a few problems for a team that’s always thinking about February.
The big question now: Will Houston actually pull the trigger? Mixon’s cap hit, age, and injury status make the decision a tough one, but the potential savings - and the uncertainty around his health - may ultimately tip the scales.
If he does hit the open market, expect the phone to ring. Mixon may not be the same back who once carried the load in Cincinnati, but in the right situation, with the right role, he can still make a difference.