The Houston Texans have decided to part ways with running back Joe Mixon after a season sidelined entirely by injury, marking a significant roster change as the NFL offseason begins. Mixon’s release was officially announced ahead of the new NFL league year, making the veteran back a free agent.
This move comes as the Texans overhaul their offense, following a playoff run last season largely fueled by their defense. The team’s offensive adjustments now include letting go of Mixon, who did not take the field at all during the 2025 season due to a foot injury.
Financial Considerations and Injury Impact Behind the Decision
Originally acquired from the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick, Joe Mixon had secured a three-year, $27 million contract extension with Houston. Yet, the Texans released him to manage their salary cap strains, freeing approximately $8 million in space necessary for offseason flexibility.
Mixon showed promise in his debut year with Houston, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. However, a “freak” foot injury sustained during training camp kept him off the field through the entire 2025 campaign. The Texans have been quiet regarding the progress of his recovery.
Inevitable and the end of a bizarre year,
said Landry Locker, a reporter covering the Texans.
A long expected move finally happening. What could have been for 2025 we will never know,
remarked analyst Cody Stoots.
The most likely outcome once he missed the whole season,
ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime added.
Depth at Running Back and Mixon’s Request Influence the Move
The Texans’ recent acquisition of David Montgomery, known for powerful rushing and consistent performance, also factored into Houston’s decision. Montgomery, who averaged 4.5 yards per carry and found the end zone 33 times in three years with the Detroit Lions, is expected to take the lead running back role.
The Texans releasing RB Joe Mixon will save the team $8 million in cap space. This move has been anticipated in the aftermath of Houston’s trade for David Montgomery,
wrote Jonathan Jones, an insider with CBS Sports.
NFL insider John Frascella reported that Mixon himself requested the Texans release him, adding another layer to the decision.
Another big-name running back on the market 👀,
observed Zac Stevens, beat reporter for the Denver Broncos.
Mixon’s Career and Current Outlook
Despite uncertainties surrounding his injury, 29-year-old Joe Mixon remains a skillful and productive running back. He ranked eighth in PFSN’s NFL RB Impact Metrics in 2023 and has surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark in five of his eight NFL seasons. In addition to his rushing talents, Mixon has been a reliable receiver with over 300 receiving yards in each of his last four healthy seasons.
The Texans’ decision reflects a strategic effort to reshape their offense while managing financial considerations and personnel depth. As Mixon enters free agency, teams seeking a seasoned running back with a solid record may find a valuable addition in him, depending on his recovery status and performance evaluations ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Joe Mixon requested his released Thursday, per source, and was granted it today. The move saves the Texans $8 million against the cap. https://t.co/gL6IDcL9Xr pic.twitter.com/JxP2B22D5j
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2026
Inevitable and the end of a bizarre year. https://t.co/xiCnhFwxE0
— Landry Locker (@LandryLocker) March 6, 2026
A long expected move finally happening.
What could have been for 2025 we will never know. https://t.co/zKQoiQxywm
— Cody Stoots (@Cody_Stoots) March 6, 2026
The most likely outcome once he missed the whole season. https://t.co/GjNJyOcjRR
— DJ Bien-Aime (@Djbienaime) March 6, 2026
The Texans releasing RB Joe Mixon will save the team $8 million in cap space. This move has been anticipated in the aftermath of Houston's trade for David Montgomery.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) March 6, 2026
Breaking: The #Texans are releasing RB Joe Mixon.
Mixon missed the entirety of the 2025 NFL season with a foot injury that has still not been disclosed. Have to wonder if he'll ever play again. pic.twitter.com/KOjYIPKyjl
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulliNFL) March 6, 2026
UPDATE:
Joe Mixon REQUESTED his release from the Texans. https://t.co/YBvP1EMV33
— John Frascella (Football) (@NFLFrascella) March 6, 2026
https://twitter.com/ZacStevensDNVR/status/2030020692943819241
