August 25, 2025

The Houston Texans traded for running back Joe Mixon (ankle, foot) in March of 2024 after the 28-year-old enjoyed seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. Mixon was a valuable fantasy asset in a Bengals' offense that raised his ceiling and afforded him a ton of volume. He continued producing after the move to Houston, a lone bright spot in an offense marred by injury while battling an early-season ankle issue of his own that lingered. Mixon ripped off a stretch of games during his return from injury in Week 6, rushing for at least 100 yards and one touchdown in six of eight contests, and was much better on a fantasy points per game basis (eighth) than his PPR RB17 finish. Houston traded for wide receiver Christian Kirk earlier this year, and they'll need him after Stefon Diggs' departure and the news that Tank Dell (knee) may miss the entire 2025 season. Additionally, they've beefed up quarterback C.J. Stroud's arsenal of pass-catchers in the draft, including former USC running back Woody Marks, and Iowa State wideouts Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins, to fit with Nico Collins and Kirk. Marks threatens the reception work Mixon shouldered last year, but a better offense should benefit him overall as long as he retains most of his volume. Update 8/25/25: Mixon hasn't practiced at all during training camp due to foot and ankle injuries. He will start the season on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list and will miss at least the team's first four games. With the latest news, expect Mixon's draft stock to drop even further, making him mainly an injury stash for now.--Alex Ciulla