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The Houston Texans might not have their star running back on the field at all this season. Joe Mixon hasn’t played yet due to a foot and ankle injury, and it doesn’t sound like he will return any time soon.
Entering Week 12, Texans general manager Nick Caserio revealed a worrisome injury update about Mixon.
“It’s a very gray situation. Joe’s worked at it. There were times where he’s made progress and other times when the progress is kinda stalled. Obviously we’re getting pretty late in the game here, I don’t want to establish any sort of expectations. I don’t think we have anymore clarity at this point,” Caserio said.
𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: Texans’ GM Nick Caserio speaks on star RB Joe Mixon possibly returning
“It’s a very gray situation. Joe’s worked at it. There were times where he’s made progress and other times when the progress is kinda stalled. Obviously we’re getting pretty late in the game… pic.twitter.com/B8Ckhczq6A
— JPA (@jasrifootball) November 18, 2025
The Texans ruled Mixon out shortly before the start of the season. He’s dealing with a somewhat mysterious injury, and there have been few updates about his situation.
In the meantime, rookie running back Woody Marks has emerged as the Texans’ primary option out of the backfield. He has outplayed veteran Nick Chubb and should continue to be the featured back for as long as he’s healthy.
As for Mixon, the former Cincinnati Bengals star was coming off a solid first year with his new team, and this was a big blow to their offense. Then again, given he’ll turn 30 before next season, Houston might be prepared to move on from him, regardless of whether he’s back to full strength or not.
Despite the team’s offensive struggles, the Texans’ hard-nosed defense has them in playoff contention. With C.J. Stroud struggling and currently out with a concussion, they might have to rely even more on the running game to stay afloat in the AFC South.
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