The Houston Texans are anticipated to release running back Joe Mixon, according to KPRC 2 Houston‘s Aaron Wilson. This move aligns with Houston’s plan to pursue more expensive options in the free agent running back market as they prepare for the upcoming offseason.
Background on Mixon’s Time with Texans and Injury Status
Mixon, 29, missed the entire 2025 season due to a foot injury that required surgery toward the end of the year, as confirmed by Texans general manager Nick Caserio. Prior to joining Houston, Mixon spent seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals before being traded during the 2024 offseason. Upon his arrival, the Texans signed him to a three-year contract extension worth $27 million.
Performance and Financial Implications of the Release
In his initial season with Houston, Mixon had some injury setbacks but still delivered a notable performance, rushing for 1,016 yards with 11 touchdowns over 14 games. Additionally, he caught 36 passes for 309 yards and earned his second Pro Bowl selection. In the playoffs, he averaged 4.5 yards per carry and gained 194 rushing yards across two games. Releasing Mixon would free up roughly $8 million in cap space for 2026 but would incur $2 million in dead money charges for the Texans.
Houston’s Running Back Scenario After Mixon’s Injury and Release
While Mixon was sidelined, the Texans relied mainly on Nick Chubb and Woody Marks in the backfield during 2025. Both players showed moments of promise but did not surpass a 4.1 yards per carry average over the season. Houston is now positioned to actively explore the higher-end free agent running back options as it aims to move past its recent pattern of divisional-round playoff exits and seek a deeper postseason run.
Looking Ahead at Texans’ Offseason Strategy
With Joe Mixon’s potential departure, the Texans appear focused on recalibrating their roster to strengthen their offense. Their strategy to pursue established free agent running backs suggests a commitment to competing at a higher level in the coming seasons. How the Texans utilize the freed-up salary cap space and which players they target could significantly influence their future success as they try to advance further into the playoffs.
“high-end free agent running back market,”
— Aaron Wilson, KPRC 2 Houston
“The 29-year-old eventually underwent surgery at the end of the year.”
— Nick Caserio, Houston Texans General Manager
#Texans are expected to explore high-end free agent running back market, per #NFL sources. Nick Caserio discloses Joe Mixon offseason surgery. Texans are expected to ultimately part ways with Mixon, per league sources, and release him from his three-year, $27 million contract… https://t.co/AUWjmwWXQv
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) February 24, 2026
