ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, renowned for his coverage of the Houston Texans, has brought forth a captivating revelation from the world of football. As per a reliable source, the Cincinnati Bengals are opting for a trade route, sending veteran running back Joe Mixon to the Houston Texans, rather than releasing him, a move that has sparked considerable surprise.
The anticipated release of Mixon was on the horizon after the Bengals sealed a deal with free agent running back Zack Moss just a day prior. However, the Texans threw a curveball by striking a trade, relinquishing an undisclosed pick to secure Mixon’s services.
The seasoned back, who amassed 1,034 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in the 2023 season, emerged as an attractive prospect for Houston, particularly following the departure of their starting running back, Devin Singletary, who inked a lucrative three-year, $16.5 million contract with the New York Giants.
Houston’s lackluster rushing offense, ranked a dismal 28th in yards per game with 92.7 in 2023, necessitated a revamp. Mixon’s arrival brings hope for a resurgence in their ground game, infusing experience and skill into the Texans’ lineup.
Mixon’s tenure with the Bengals spanned seven seasons, marked by consistent performance and notable achievements. With 6,412 rushing yards under his belt, along with 49 touchdowns and a commendable average of 4.1 yards per carry, Mixon’s impact on the field was undeniable.
His versatility extended beyond rushing, as evidenced by his 283 receptions for 2,139 yards and 14 touchdowns. A second-round draft pick out of Oklahoma in 2017, Mixon’s departure from Cincinnati signifies the end of an era for the Bengals’ backfield.
The move comes amidst concerns over the Bengals’ rushing game, which exhibited a lack of explosiveness throughout the previous season. Mixon’s departure underscores a pivotal shift in the Bengals’ strategy, signaling a new direction for the team’s offensive approach.
As Mixon embarks on a new chapter with the Texans, joining forces with emerging talent like Dameon Pierce, who showcased promise in his rookie year with 939 rushing yards in 2022, the landscape of Houston’s backfield promises intrigue and potential for growth.
In this unfolding narrative of NFL trades and acquisitions, DJ Bien-Aime’s insights shed light on the evolving dynamics of professional football, providing fans with a glimpse into the strategic maneuvers shaping the league’s competitive landscape.
Contributions from ESPN’s Ben Baby have enriched the depth of this report, offering valuable perspectives on the implications of Mixon’s transition to the Houston Texans.
