Joe Mixon Latest Injury Update: When Will the Texans RB Return?

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon remains sidelined as the 2025 NFL season moves past its midpoint. The veteran back continues to recover from a lingering foot injury that has kept him off the field since July. As of now, there is still no confirmed timetable for his return.

Mixon, who was placed on the non-football injury (NFI) list at the start of training camp, has not practiced or been activated for any game this year. His absence has left a significant gap in the Texans’ offense, particularly after his productive 2024 season when he led the team in rushing yards and touchdowns.

Joe Mixon’s Injury Status and Texans’ Update

Head coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio have both provided limited updates regarding Mixon’s recovery. Ryans most recently stated during an Oct. 27 press conference that he had “no update” on Mixon’s return. Caserio added earlier in November that the team might have more clarity in the coming weeks but avoided committing to a firm timetable.

“He’s making progress,” Caserio said. “I think over the next three to four weeks we’ll probably have a better sense about which way he’s gonna go for the duration of the year.”

The 29-year-old Mixon joined Houston last season after several strong years with the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2024, he recorded 1,016 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on 245 carries, earning a Pro Bowl nod. His combination of power running and pass protection made him a reliable veteran presence in the Texans’ backfield.

However, his prolonged absence this season has forced Houston to rely on a committee approach featuring Nick Chubb, rookie Woody Marks, and Dare Ogunbowale. The Texans have adapted with Marks emerging as a versatile option in the passing game, catching 15 passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns through Week 10.

Texans’ Running Back Depth Without Mixon

Houston’s current depth chart lists Chubb as the primary ball carrier, while Marks handles most of the receiving duties. Ogunbowale and Dameon Pierce have seen limited action, and British Brooks has primarily played at fullback. Despite Mixon’s absence, the Texans’ run game has remained serviceable, but it lacks the explosiveness Mixon once provided.

The uncertainty surrounding Mixon’s return continues to raise questions about Houston’s offensive balance heading into the final stretch of the season. Without him, the Texans may rely more on quarterback C.J. Stroud’s passing attack and short-yardage schemes involving Chubb and Marks.

Outlook for Joe Mixon’s Return

As of mid-November, there is no indication that Mixon will return in the near future. Unless he begins practicing soon, it’s possible the Texans could opt to keep him on the NFI list for the remainder of the season to ensure a full recovery. Both team officials and Mixon himself have remained quiet about his progress.

If Mixon does return late in the season, his presence could provide a major boost to Houston’s playoff push. For now, fans will have to wait as the team evaluates his health and long-term outlook.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will Joe Mixon return to the field?

There is currently no set timetable for Joe Mixon’s return. The Texans plan to reassess his foot injury later in November.

Q2: What injury is keeping Mixon out?

He has been dealing with a nagging foot injury that began before training camp, leading to his placement on the non-football injury list.

Q3: How has Mixon’s absence affected the Texans?

The Texans have used a running-back-by-committee approach, with Nick Chubb and Woody Marks sharing most of the offensive snaps.

Q4: Could Mixon miss the entire 2025 season?

Yes, that remains possible if his recovery does not progress soon. The team has not ruled out a season-long absence.

Q5: What are Joe Mixon’s stats from last season?

In 2024, Mixon rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns over 14 games, helping the Texans secure a playoff berth.