Texans' Joe Mixon Sidelined Four Weeks with Non-Football Injury; Return Date Uncertain

When Will Joe Mixon Return? Texans RB Injury Update

The Houston Texans are currently navigating the start of the 2025 NFL season without their star running back, Joe Mixon. Mixon is currently on the reserve/non-football injury list (NFI) due to a mysterious foot injury, leaving his return date uncertain. This article provides an update on his status and evaluates the Texans' backfield in his absence.

Joe Mixon's Injury and Potential Return

As of now, there is no definitive timeline for Mixon's return to the field. He was placed on the reserve/NFI list in late August, which mandates that he miss the first four weeks of the season. This means he is eligible to return as early as Week 5 when the Texans play the Baltimore Ravens. However, given that he has not practiced during the offseason, a Week 5 return may be optimistic unless he resumes practicing soon. The team also has a Week 6 bye, offering an opportunity for extra preparation before a potential Week 7 return against the Seattle Seahawks.

Details surrounding the nature of Mixon's injury remain unclear, making it difficult to predict his exact return date. The Texans will likely provide more information as the season progresses.

Evaluating the Texans' Backfield Without Mixon

With Joe Mixon sidelined, the Texans are relying on a committee of running backs to carry the load. In Week 1, Nick Chubb, Dameon Pierce, and Woody Marks all saw action, along with Dare Ogunbowale. Chubb received the bulk of the carries, finishing with 13, while Pierce, Marks, and Ogunbowale combined for eight.

Nick Chubb appears to be the lead back for now. Although his performance in Week 1 (60 yards on 13 carries) was respectable, his lack of pass-catching ability limits his fantasy football upside. Pierce, who had a promising rookie season in 2022, saw limited action in Week 1. Woody Marks, a rookie fourth-round pick from USC, could see his role increase in the coming weeks due to his pass-catching abilities.

Fantasy Football Outlook

In terms of fantasy football, Nick Chubb is currently the most valuable Texans running back while Mixon is out. He's a fringe FLEX option, but his lack of touchdowns will hamper his value. Pierce's role is too limited to be a reliable fantasy option. Woody Marks is worth considering as a stash pick on the waiver wire, particularly in PPR formats, due to his potential to develop into a pass-catching role.

It is important to monitor the Texans' backfield situation closely in the coming weeks to see if any of these players emerge as a consistent fantasy contributor. For now, Chubb is the only one worth starting in most leagues, while Marks is an intriguing player to watch.