Texans GM sparks concern over Joe Mixon's return from injury

“We’ll see. We’ll take it one day at a time,” Caserio said, via ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime. “We’ll evaluate those players after four weeks and see where they are in their progression and then make a determination.”

Mixon finds himself on the reserve/NFI list, which ensures he will miss the first month of the campaign. A lingering foot/ankle injury has proven to be challenging with respect to a smooth recovery process, and Wednesday's comments from Caserio don't inspire confidence that it will be a minimum absence for Mixon. Houston’s ground games figures to be uncertain with Mixon not in the fold.

The former Bengal enjoyed a strong debut Texans campaign in 2024, topping topping 1,000 rushing yards for the fifth time and scoring 12 total touchdowns (tied for the second most of his career). Another large workload was set to be in store for Mixon in 2025 after he logged 245 carries last season. Now, his outlook for the coming campaign may not include any game action.

Free agent signing Nick Chubb is in position to handle a starting workload until Mixon is healthy. The former Browns star was unable to regain his previous form upon returning to action in 2024, though, so questions loom about his ability to serve as an effective lead back at this point in his career. The Texans also have returnees Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale in the fold, along with fourth-round rookie Woody Marks.

Two years remain on Mixon’s contract, but none of his $8M base salary for 2026 is guaranteed. His financial future will thus depend in large part on his ability to return to action at some point this season, something which would be welcomed by a Texans team looking to emerge as a true AFC contender. Mixon’s progress in recovery over the coming weeks will be a key storyline for the team.