After a divisional round defeat, the Houston Texans are shaking things up on offense. Their running back room has seen a lot of changes, so what is the newest move made?
Why the Houston Texans Released Joe Mixon
As Spotrac noted, Mixon signed a three-year deal with the Texans. It has a base value of $25.5 million, with $500,000 in available incentives per year. So why did they let him go? One reason is that this move helps the Texans financially.
As Adam Schefter reported, the Texans released Mixon on Friday, a move that saves Houston $8 million against the cap. The Texans entered the offseason over the salary cap and needed to create space ahead of free agency next week.
The Texans could look to land some offensive linemen this offseason to help boost their offense, so this move could help them sign free agents in the offensive trenches.
Another reason Houston released Mixon is their strong running back depth. The Texans traded for David Montgomery earlier this week. Montgomery averaged 4.5 yards per carry last season and has great power, having scored 33 touchdowns in three seasons with the Detroit Lions. He will be the lead back in Houston.
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They also have Woody Marks. Marks had some inconsistencies during his rookie year but also had some great showings, such as his wild card game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he rushed for 112 yards and a touchdown. Nick Chubb provided depth in 2025 but is now a free agent heading into the offseason.
Potential Landing Spots for Mixon
As Spotrac noted, Mixon missed all of 2025 with a foot injury. Before he got hurt, Mixon had a productive 2024 season. During that year, Mixon had over 1,000 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. If Mixon is back playing at full health, he could be a valuable addition for a team.
Mixon could return home to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals could use additional depth at running back. Chase Brown emerged as their lead back, but the team could benefit from a veteran presence.
Another spot for Mixon could be the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings are in need of a running back, and while they could draft a running back, Mixon would be a good mentor. In 2024, Mixon played under offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik in Houston, who ran the Shanahan-style offense similar to how Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell does.
If Mixon does not return to full health, he could still be a valuable rotational back. One such spot could be the Philadelphia Eagles, where he could be a change-of-pace option for Saquon Barkley.
The Las Vegas Raiders also fit that construct, as Mixon could come in relief for Ashton Jeanty. Mixon could also be a great leader and mentor for Jeanty, who will be entering his second NFL season. Overall, even though things did not go to plan in Houston, Mixon still has potential value in the NFL.
