Joe Mixon Latest Injury Update: Will Texans RB Return After Ongoing Foot Issues?

Joe Mixon Latest injury update remains a major concern for the Houston Texans as the veteran running back continues to miss the entire 2025 season due to a persistent foot injury. The 29-year-old has not practiced once this year and is now expected to remain sidelined for the rest of the season. This confirms that Houston will move forward without their former Pro Bowl starter.

The Texans placed Mixon on the non-football injury list before the start of the season. Team officials have repeatedly described his condition as unclear. Mixon has not taken a single snap since the injury surfaced in late July.

Detailed Breakdown of Joe Mixon Latest Injury Update

Joe Mixon arrived in Houston in 2024 and produced a strong debut season with 1,016 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Expectations were high entering 2025. The setback began in May, when Mixon skipped all team workouts due to an undisclosed issue. By July 23, the Texans placed him on the Active Non-Football Injury list. This move signaled that his injury happened away from team facilities.

Three days later, the first mention of a specific foot injury appeared. Mixon did not participate in training camp. When Houston finalized its roster on August 25, the team kept him on the NFI list. This decision ruled him out for the first four games automatically.

General manager Nick Caserio addressed reporters on August 27. He said players on NFI require weekly evaluation. He refused to give a timetable. Mixon became eligible to return in Week 5 against the Ravens. The Texans did not activate him.

Coach DeMeco Ryans was asked again on October 27 about Mixon. His short response highlighted the uncertainty. Caserio later called the situation gray and ambiguous during a November 18 interview. He said there was no clear direction on Mixon’s return and described the recovery outlook as unpredictable.

On November 20, multiple reports indicated Mixon would not return this season. This marks the first year in his NFL career that he will finish without a single offensive snap. Outlets including AP and CNN have noted that Mixon’s long-term future will depend on full medical clarity during the offseason.

Houston prepared for this scenario. The Texans signed Nick Chubb in free agency and drafted USC standout Woody Marks to strengthen depth. Both moves have helped the team stay competitive in the AFC race.

How Houston Moves Forward Without Mixon

Mixon’s absence has forced Houston to rely on rotational backs and increased flexibility in the run game. Chubb brings veteran consistency, while Marks provides speed and youth. The mix has kept the Texans at a steady 5-5 record entering Week 12.

The Texans remain on the playoff bubble. Losing Mixon has limited explosiveness. Yet the roster adjustments made by Houston’s front office have offered stability. The team will continue to adapt as they push for postseason hopes.

Joe Mixon Latest injury update closes the chapter on his 2025 season. Houston will now focus on developing its new rushing options while using the offseason to determine Mixon’s long-term outlook. His recovery will be one of the team’s most closely watched storylines heading into 2026.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Joe Mixon out this season?

He is dealing with a stubborn foot injury. The Texans kept him on the NFI list. He never progressed enough to return.

Q2: When was Joe Mixon eligible to return?

He became eligible in Week 5. The team did not activate him due to lack of recovery progress.

Q3: Did the Texans replace Mixon?

They signed Nick Chubb and drafted Woody Marks. Both have filled key roles.

Q4: What did the Texans say about Mixon’s injury?

Nick Caserio described it as gray and unclear. The team avoided giving any specific timeline.

Q5: Will Mixon return in 2026?

The team has not confirmed anything. His status will depend on offseason medical updates.