Texans Expected to Explore High-End RB Market as Joe Mixon’s Status Remains Uncertain
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
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The Houston Texans appear to be preparing for life without Joe Mixon — at least temporarily — as uncertainty surrounding the veteran running back’s health continues into the offseason.
According to Aaron Wilson, the Texans are expected to explore the high-end free agent running back market, with Mixon having undergone offseason surgery and his status described as unclear. League sources also indicate Houston could ultimately part ways with Mixon, who is entering the final year of a three-year, $27 million contract. If they were to cut him they would incur $2,000,000 in dead cap but save $8,000,000 in cap.
General manager Nick Caserio addressed the situation at the NFL Combine, offering cautious comments that suggest the team is not assuming Mixon will be ready.
“I think he had a surgery this offseason in some capacity.”
Caserio added the situation has been fluid for some time:
“We knew last spring to the summer, there’s a chance he was going to miss a period of time… it was just a moving target.”
Mixon’s availability has also been described as “day to day,” reinforcing the sense that Houston is preparing contingency plans rather than waiting for clarity.
March 11 Looms as a Key Decision Point
The start of the new league year on March 11 represents a critical deadline.
Teams typically want roster clarity before free agency begins. If the Texans believe Mixon will not be ready — or cannot be relied upon to return to form — they must act quickly to secure alternatives.
While the best-case scenario would be Mixon returning healthy and productive, the prolonged uncertainty surrounding this injury makes that outcome difficult to bank on.
From a front-office perspective, operating with urgency rather than optimism is the prudent approach. For Texans fans, that strategy should be reassuring. Houston is preparing as if Mixon may not be available instead of allowing the offense to hinge on an unknown timeline.
Current In-House Running Back Options
Outside of Mixon, the Texans have a young and varied backfield — but one lacking a proven lead option.
Woody Marks — Produced a solid rookie season and profiles as a versatile contributor
Jawhar Jordan — Showed flashes as a speed back suited for outside-zone concepts
British Brooks — Rarely used, more of a bruising or special-teams presence with potential fullback utility
This group offers complementary skills but does not currently replace Mixon’s all-around production and play making ability.
Veteran Free Agent Market Growing Thin
Houston’s potential urgency is compounded by developments around the league that are shrinking the available running back pool.
Recent reports indicate the New York Jets intend to use the transition tag on Breece Hall if an extension is not reached, signaling their commitment to keeping him long term.
Hall had been viewed as a potential high-end option for teams seeking a lead back.
Earlier in the week, Dallas also re-signed Javonte Williams, removing another notable name from the market.
As top options disappear, Houston may be forced to act quickly or explore alternative acquisition paths.
Potential External Targets
Aaron Wilson’s report suggests the Texans could pursue a premier running back option if Mixon’s outlook remains cloudy. One name that fits that profile is Kenneth Walker III, a dynamic playmaker who would instantly upgrade Houston’s ground game.
Other potential targets frequently mentioned around the league include:
Travis Etienne
Rico Dowdle
Tyler Allgeier
Each brings a different skill set, but none would be inexpensive additions.
Trade Market Could Also Be in Play
Caserio also noted that teams can address positions through free agency, the draft, or trades — a philosophy he has demonstrated repeatedly.
Houston has often acquired veterans via late-round pick trades, particularly when teams plan to release players. This strategy allows them to bypass the waiver wire and secure targets early.
Earlier in the week I explored potential trade candidates who could become available, some of those names include:
Josh Jacobs
D’Andre Swift
Tony Pollard
All three have the pedigree to handle a significant workload and would align with Houston’s win-now window.
A Proactive Approach Signals Organizational Urgency
Regardless of the path chosen, the Texans’ posture suggests they are unwilling to let uncertainty derail offensive plans heading into a pivotal season.
Preparing for multiple scenarios — rather than waiting on medical clarity — reflects a front office focused on sustaining momentum after recent success.
If Mixon ultimately returns healthy, Houston would simply have additional depth. If not, the groundwork is already being laid to ensure the offense does not suffer.
For a team with championship aspirations, that level of preparedness is not just sensible — it’s necessary.
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