Full Breakdown
Houston Texans Release Running Back Joe Mixon After Injury-Plagued Season
3/7/2026, 3:05:21 AM
Overview of the Release
The Houston Texans have released running back Joe Mixon at his request, following a season lost to a foot injury. This decision, confirmed by sources, frees up approximately $8 million in salary cap space for the team. Mixon, 29, had a productive first season with the Texans in 2024 but was sidelined for the entirety of the 2025 season due to a mysterious foot injury that was never publicly detailed by the organization.
Mixon's Tenure with the Texans
Mixon joined the Texans in March 2024 through a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals, who were preparing to release him. Upon his arrival, Houston signed him to a three-year, $27 million contract extension, which included $13 million guaranteed. In his inaugural season, Mixon rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors. He notably contributed to the Texans' playoff run, accumulating 194 rushing yards and two touchdowns before the team was eliminated by the Kansas City Chiefs in the divisional round.
Impact of the Injury
The 2025 season proved disastrous for Mixon, as he missed all offseason workouts and training camp due to his foot injury. The Texans placed him on the non-football injury list at the end of training camp, which sidelined him for the first four games of the season. Despite hopes for his return, Mixon never recovered sufficiently to play, leading the Texans to rely on rookie Woody Marks, who led the team with 703 rushing yards, and free agent signing Nick Chubb, who added 506 yards. Consequently, Houston finished 22nd in the league in rushing yards per game, averaging 108.
Strategic Moves Following the Release
In a bid to strengthen their backfield, the Texans recently acquired David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions, which effectively made Mixon's release a formality. Montgomery's arrival indicates a strategic shift in the Texans' offensive plans as they seek to improve their rushing attack.
Future Prospects for Mixon
As Mixon enters free agency, he carries impressive credentials, ranking seventh among active players with 7,428 career rushing yards and tied for eighth with 60 rushing touchdowns. His contributions in the passing game, totaling 2,448 career receiving yards and 14 receiving touchdowns, further bolster his appeal. However, potential teams will need to assess the unresolved nature of his foot injury before committing to a contract.
Official Statements & Responses
The Texans' decision to release Mixon was framed as a mutual agreement following his request. General manager Nick Caserio emphasized the team's commitment to improving their roster while acknowledging the challenges posed by Mixon's injury.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The move saves the Texans $8 million against the salary cap.” — ESPN's Adam Schefter
- “AvandaTimes notes that Mixon’s departure marks the end of a brief but impactful period with the Houston franchise.” — AvandaTimes
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Texans have not disclosed specific details about Mixon's foot injury, the lack of clarity raises questions about his health status moving forward. Additionally, there are no reports indicating which teams may be interested in signing him as he enters free agency.
