Joe Mixon Injury Update: Will the Texans Star Play This Season, and What’s the Latest on His Mysterious Foot Issue?

The Houston Texans sit at 3-5 and continue to miss the services of starting running back Joe Mixon. The longtime Cincinnati Bengal has yet to suit up this season, mending his non-public and non-football-related injury. The five-time 1,000-plus yard rusher was placed on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list on August 26, with Nick Chubb and rookie Woody Marks splitting reps in his absence.

Will Joe Mixon’s Injury Sideline Him for the Remainder of the 2025 Season?

Mixon performed brilliantly in his opening season with the Texans, posting over 1,300 total yards and 12 total TDs. However, his mysterious summer injury has seen the 29-year-old sidelined all season, with no apparent return in sight.

PFSN’s Nicolas Curry reported on Mixon, along with other injury-ridden fantasy stars, providing somewhat of an update from the Texans general manager. “Texans GM Nick Caserio provided another non-update recently, confirming there is no timetable for Mixon’s return, and they will ‘take it one day at a time,'” said Curry.

During Mixon’s unavailability, the Texans’ backfield-by-committee ranks towards the bottom of the NFL in terms of rushing statistics.

Mixon’s Availability May Be Crucial As Texans Push for Playoffs

Using PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, we see Houston rank 26th overall with a 68.4 impact score. That score earns them a D+ grade, with the run game playing a significant role in the low score.

The Texans’ unpredictable backfield has forced them to run the ball at a limited rate, ranking 20th in the NFL in rushing attempts per game. They are also ranked 23rd in rushing yards (871) and have a pitiful three rushing touchdowns on the year, ranking them 29th in that statistic.

PFSN’s RB Impact metric shows Chubb and Marks performing similarly through eight games this season. Among 43 statistically eligible backs, the Texans RBs land 38th (Chubb) and 41st (Marks).

Chubb has easily been the more reliable running back in terms of the run game; however, Mark’s value in the pass game has been impressive. Mark’s 193 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns rank ninth and fifth, respectively.

With the trade deadline officially past, one Texans media personality is disappointed that Houston’s front office did not attempt to bolster the RB room. Jeremy Beadling took to X, where he discusses his unhappiness with Houston’s general manager. “If Texans fans don’t see Joe Mixon for the rest of this season… Nick Caserio has failed this team, city and fan base Breece Hall should be a Texan today,” said Beadling.

With Houston currently sitting third in the AFC South, will their current backfield be able to contribute enough to help the Texans regain a playoff position?

Houston Texans’ Insights for Week 10

Team: Dating back to Week 9 last season, Houston is 2-9, including 0-5 this season, in one-possession games.

QB: C.J. Stroud isn’t back to his rookie season form, but his QBi has jumped from 75.1 (C) QBi after a 68.8 (D+) in 2024.

Offense: Houston has posted an OFFi grade of D or worse in three of the last four games. The Texans scored 17.7 PPG and lost all three games.

Defense: Houston’s DEFi is 3rd third-best in the NFL, as they’ve held opponents to 18 or fewer points in six of eight games.

Fantasy: Through nine weeks, the Texans still have yet to allow a QB1 performance.