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Joe Mixon Fantasy Outlook: Super Bowl Hangover Or Resurgence
3 years agoBehind an offensive line that was universally panned, Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon still gained 1,205 yards and 13 touchdowns on 292 rushes. Joe Burrow was excellent in 2021. His connection with Ja'Marr Chase from LSU translated exceptionally to the NFL field. Add in the talented duo of Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins, and it was hard to see the Cincinnati Bengals not being good. But do not forget about Mixon. On top of achieving more than 1,200 yards on the ground, Mixon also was able to catch 42 of 48 targets for 314 yards and three more touchdowns in the passing game. Although Hayden Hurst is the team's primary tight end, the loss of C.J. Uzomah will still be felt in the offense. Hurst has not produced much since being drafted in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens, and even after his trade to Atlanta, he was an afterthought once the team drafted Kyle Pitts in 2021. With this in mind, Mixon, a talented back in both the run and pass game, will take over a lot of the dump-off duties once held by Uzomah. Chase is likely to only get better in year two. An upgraded offensive line, led by free agent signing La'el Collins, will benefit not just Burrow but also Mixon. After working hard over 16 games in 2021 to average 4.1 yards per carry, Mixon will not need to do so in 2022. Not only should he threaten 300 carries once again. He will also threaten 50 or more receptions. And with his yards per carry average set to go up, this could be another stellar season for Mixon. Although he is not in contention for the No. 1 overall pick in fantasy drafts, Mixon is a surefire first-rounder and likely to go in the top seven picks. This will also be his floor for fantasy. As long as he remains healthy and the Bengals do not fall back down to earth in every other facet of their team, Mixon is set to finally take his place amongst the top five at the fantasy running back position. A place many have thought he would get to earlier in his career.
