Texans Announce Joe Mixon News as Training Camp Begins

The move to place Mixon on the NFI list was to be expected. Despite a positive medical outlook, the Texans are trying to ease the veteran running back into the mix during training camp.

A second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Oklahoma Sooners star spent his first seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. Following his 2023 campaign, Mixon was dealt to the Texans in March 2024, who promptly signed him to a three-year $25.5 Million extension. Last season with Houston, Mixon rushed for 1,016 yards on 245 attempts to go with 11 touchdowns. He also added 36 receptions for 309 yards and a touchdown.

The Texans also placed running back Dameon Pierce on the physically unable to perform list. With Mixon and Pierce on the shelf to start camp, this will give newly-signed Nick Chubb and 2025 fourth-round pick Woody Marks plenty of opportunities to showcase their skills.

Chubb, who ranks third on the Cleveland Browns all-time rushing list (6,843 yards), signed a one-year deal with the Texans last month. Marks rushed for over 3,000 yards in five seasons with Mississippi State and USC. The 5-foot-10, 200-pound shifty back also displayed a knack for catching the ball out of the backfield. During his collegiate career, he registered 261 receptions for 1,546 yards and five touchdowns.

Overall, the Texans placed 11 players on the PUP list on Wednesday, including offensive tackle Trent Brown (patellar tendon), wide receiver Tank Dell (knee injuries), defensive end Denico Autry (knee), and veteran cornerback Jimmie Ward (foot surgery).