As NFL teams begin training camps ahead of the 2025 season, the Houston Texans are facing an early setback. Star running back Joe Mixon is expected to miss the entire preseason due to a lingering ankle injury, putting his status for Week 1 in question.
Joe Mixon Likely Sidelined Through August
Mixon, a two-time Pro Bowler, was placed on the non-football injury list at the start of training camp. According to ESPN, he’s not expected to play in any preseason games, and will be re-evaluated closer to the regular season, which begins for the Texans on September 7 against the Los Angeles Rams.
This news was first reported by NFL Network, and it has raised concerns for Texans fans as the team prepares for a high-expectation season.
Mixon’s History with Injuries
Unfortunately, this is not the first time Mixon has dealt with ankle problems:
In 2024, he missed three games due to an aggravated ankle
In 2022, he sat out two games with a concussion
In 2021, he played through multiple ankle sprains, managing to appear in 16 games
In 2020, a foot injury in Week 6 ended his season early
Despite the setbacks, Mixon remains a reliable performer when healthy.
Mixon’s Performance in 2024
Last season, Mixon rushed for 1,016 yards and scored 11 rushing touchdowns, along with one receiving TD. It was a solid year that showed he still has the talent to be a top-tier back, even at age 29.
His experience and ability to find the end zone make him a key part of the Texans’ offense, especially as they aim for a playoff push in 2025.
Texans Add Depth to Running Back Room
The Texans seem to have prepared for this kind of situation. They signed All-Pro Nick Chubb this offseason, who will likely take on a bigger role if Mixon is not ready by Week 1. The team also drafted Woody Marks, a fourth-round pick who impressed in college and could see snaps during preseason games.
With Chubb and Marks available, the Texans still have strong options at running back, but losing Mixon’s veteran presence, even temporarily, could affect early-season chemistry.
Texans’ Upcoming Schedule
The Texans open their preseason on August 9 against the Minnesota Vikings, but it’s now unlikely that Mixon will feature in that or any other preseason matches. His next chance to play will be in Week 1 vs. Rams on Sept. 7, depending on his recovery.
