Training camps across the NFL are in full swing, with teams gearing up for the upcoming season. The Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers are set to meet in Canton, Ohio, on July 31 to officially kick off the preseason. Enthusiasm builds as fans look forward to the 2025 season, but not all players are in peak condition. One noticeable absence will be Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon, who is expected to miss the entire month of August due to a persistent ankle issue. His situation poses concerns for the Texans as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1 of the regular season.
Mixon’s injury history is concerning, as he has dealt with ongoing issues related to his ankles. Initially starting training camp on the non-football injury list, Mixon’s absence stems from an ankle problem sustained earlier in the offseason. This lack of participation continued through minicamp, which raises further questions about his readiness for the upcoming season. The Houston Texans are cautious about Mixon’s health, indicating that further evaluations will take place before the regular season kicks off.
The severity of Mixon’s ankle issues is underscored by his past injuries. Last season, he missed three games due to an aggravated setback, and in previous years he has faced multiple challenges: a concussion sidelined him for two games in 2022, while various ankle sprains limited his effectiveness in 2021. Additionally, a foot injury cut his 2020 season short, demonstrating a troubling pattern of injuries that could impact his performance in 2025.
Despite these challenges, the 29-year-old running back had a solid performance last season, rushing for 1,016 yards, scoring 11 touchdowns, and catching one receiving touchdown. Such impressive stats illustrate his potential if he can remain healthy. However, for the Texans to compete effectively, they will need to navigate his absence strategically. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that Mixon has been a central figure in the team’s offensive strategy, making his potential absence even more significant.
To bolster their running game, the Texans have taken steps to reinforce their backfield this offseason, signing All-Pro Nick Chubb and drafting Woody Marks in the fourth round. Such moves indicate the Texans are committed to maintaining a competitive roster regardless of Mixon’s availability. The addition of Chubb, known for his explosive running style, could help mitigate the impact of Mixon’s injury and provide a reliable option as the team heads into the preseason.
As the Texans prepare for their preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings on August 9, Mixon’s condition remains a focal point. The team must weigh the risks and benefits of rushing him back into action while balancing the potential of new recruits. As training camps continue and the preseason approaches, the outlook for the Texans will hinge significantly on how effectively they can navigate health concerns and adapt to their changing roster dynamics.
