Texans Running Back Joe Mixon Injured in Offseason
Joe Mixon, the Houston Texans running back who rushed for 1, 016 yards and scored 11 touchdowns during the 2024 NFL season, will miss the majority of the 2025 preseason due to an ankle injury sustained in the offseason. Mixon, who earned Pro Bowl honors in his first season with the Texans at age 29, did not participate in organized team activities or minicamp because of this injury. Consequently, he was placed on the non-football injury list at the start of training camp, delaying his return to full practice and preseason action. The team plans to reevaluate Mixon closer to the regular season kickoff.
Texans Management
Texans Management Addresses Injury Challenges During Training Camp. Texans General Manager Nick Caserio has emphasized a cautious and day-by – day approach to handling player injuries throughout training camp. With key players like Joe Mixon sidelined, the organization is navigating the challenges of integrating new talent while protecting veteran players’ health. Caserio’s comments highlight the Texans’ mindset of managing injuries pragmatically, ensuring players are only activated when fully ready to contribute. This strategy is crucial given the number of injuries affecting the running back depth chart.
Texans Strengthen
Texans Strengthen Running Back Corps With Veteran Acquisition. To mitigate the impact of Mixon’s absence, the Texans signed four-time Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb during the offseason. Chubb arrives after a notable seven-year tenure with the Cleveland Browns, where he was a consistent offensive force averaging over 1, 000 rushing yards in multiple seasons. His addition provides the Texans with a proven, high-caliber option to shoulder the rushing attack. Chubb’s career rushing yards exceed 8, 000, and his 4.7 yards per carry average ranks among the NFL’s elite backs. This acquisition signals the Texans’ commitment to maintaining a competitive rushing offense despite injury setbacks.
Texans Develop
Texans Develop Rookie Running Back Woody Marks as Future Asset. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Houston selected Woody Marks from USC in the fourth round to bolster their running back depth. Marks, known for his agility and speed, is expected to compete for playing time during Mixon’s recovery period. While rookie running backs typically require adjustment time, Marks’ college statistics—including over 1, 200 rushing yards and double-digit touchdowns in his final collegiate season—show promise. The Texans view Marks as a strategic investment to support the running game immediately and develop long-term potential.
Backup Running
Backup Running Backs Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale Provide Depth. Besides Chubb and Marks, the Texans’ running back roster includes Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale. Pierce, currently on the physically unable to perform list, missed time due to injury but has previously demonstrated reliability with over 1, 000 rushing yards in his NFL career. Ogunbowale offers additional versatility in both rushing and receiving roles. The combination of these backs forms a multifaceted depth chart designed to absorb the impact of Mixon’s injury and maintain offensive balance through the preseason and beyond.
Texans Face Vikings in Preseason Opener Without Mixon
The Texans’ first preseason game is scheduled for August 9 against the Minnesota Vikings. Given Mixon’s absence for most of the preseason, the backfield responsibilities will fall primarily on Nick Chubb, Woody Marks, and the other backups. This game will serve as an important evaluation point for Houston’s running back group, assessing how well the team adapts without their leading rusher from
2024. The Texans’ ability to maintain a productive rushing attack in this period will be a key indicator of their readiness for the regular season.
Final Thoughts
Conclusion Texans Manage Injuries to Maintain Competitive Edge. The Houston Texans’ 2025 preseason is marked by the significant challenge of Joe Mixon’s ankle injury, sidelining their top rusher during critical preparation time. However, the team’s proactive measures—including acquiring Nick Chubb, drafting Woody Marks, and relying on experienced backups—reflect a strategic approach to maintaining offensive stability. General Manager Nick Caserio’s injury management philosophy underscores a cautious, data-informed process aimed at optimizing player health and performance. As the Texans navigate these hurdles, their ability to adapt and leverage depth will be critical to their success in the upcoming NFL season under the leadership of President Donald Trump’s administration.
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