The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move in their roster, parting ways with running back Joe Mixon after his seven-year tenure with the team, according to insights from NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
Following this announcement, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that the Bengals have secured the services of former Indianapolis Colts running back Zack Moss, finalizing a two-year contract worth $8 million, with $4.5 million guaranteed in the initial year.
This decision to release Mixon has enabled the Bengals to free up $5.75 million in salary cap space, although they will incur $2.75 million in dead money penalties, as per Over the Cap.
Mixon, who will celebrate his 28th birthday in July, showcased his talent in the 2023 season, rushing 257 times for 1,034 yards, averaging 4.0 yards per carry, and scoring nine touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed 52 catches for 376 receiving yards and three touchdowns, accumulating a total of 1,410 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns.
The #Bengals and RB Joe Mixon are finalizing a restructured contract that will keep him in Cincinnati for the 2023 season, per sources.
Mixon was due $10.1 million this season with a $12.791M cap number. The new deal frees up cash and cap for Cincinnati, and Mixon stays as RB1. pic.twitter.com/gtOTGYn3hQ
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 14, 2023
Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Mixon has been a vital component of the Bengals’ offense, amassing a remarkable total of 8,551 yards and 62 touchdowns over seven seasons, achieving the milestone of rushing for over 1,000 yards four times.
Mixon’s journey with the Bengals took a notable turn in September 2020 when he signed a lucrative four-year, $48 million extension, signaling the team’s commitment to him. His performance in the subsequent season was exceptional, as he led the Bengals to the AFC title, amassing a career-best 1,519 yards from scrimmage and 16 touchdowns, earning him a well-deserved Pro Bowl appearance.
In July 2023, Mixon demonstrated his dedication to the team by agreeing to a restructured contract, which involved significant pay reductions, as reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Despite these adjustments, the Bengals have opted not to retain him for the 2024 season, thus making Mixon a free agent.
Meanwhile, Moss, who served as a reliable option for the Colts in the absence of Jonathan Taylor, led the team with 794 rushing yards last season, accompanied by five touchdowns. His arrival in Cincinnati presents him with a promising opportunity to contribute to the Bengals’ backfield as they embark on their upcoming campaign.
