The All-Pro running back will miss the entire season recovering from an offseason foot and ankle injury
The Houston Texans received disappointing news regarding their star running back’s recovery timeline. Joe Mixon will not suit up for any games during the 2025 season as he continues rehabilding from a persistent foot and ankle injury that occurred during the offseason.
Mixon delivered an outstanding 2024 campaign for Houston, rushing for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns while establishing himself as the team’s featured back. The organization anticipated him leading their ground attack again this year, but the lingering injury has derailed those plans entirely.
Despite being given ample time to heal since the initial injury, Mixon’s foot has not progressed to the point where he can return to game action. Multiple reports confirm the veteran runner will spend the remainder of 2025 on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
Texans assembled contingency plan early
Houston’s offseason moves suggest the organization may have anticipated Mixon’s extended absence. The Texans acquired Nick Chubb through a trade, bringing in a proven veteran with extensive starting experience to anchor their backfield.
The team also selected Woody Marks in the fourth round of the draft, adding a young talent who has demonstrated promising rushing abilities through the early portion of his rookie campaign. These acquisitions now appear prescient given Mixon’s inability to contribute this season.
Chubb has embraced his role as the primary ball carrier, accumulating 419 yards and two touchdowns while maintaining a solid 4.2 yards per carry average. His veteran presence provides stability and leadership within the running back room as Houston navigates this challenging situation.
Rookie shows immediate impact in expanded role
Marks has exceeded expectations for a fourth-round selection, posting 348 yards and two touchdowns through his first professional season. His 3.5 yards per carry average demonstrates effectiveness, though there remains room for improvement as he adjusts to NFL defenses.
The rookie’s development has accelerated out of necessity with Mixon sidelined. He’s received more opportunities than initially projected, allowing him to gain valuable experience that should benefit his long-term growth within Houston’s offensive system.
Together, Chubb and Marks have formed a productive tandem that keeps the Texans competitive on the ground. While neither individually matches Mixon’s 2024 production, their combined output has maintained Houston’s rushing attack as a viable component of their offensive gameplan.
Veteran leadership fills void in backfield
Chubb’s reputation as a consummate professional has proven invaluable during this transition period. His experience starting for Cleveland provides him with the knowledge and composure needed to handle increased workload expectations without the typical growing pains.
The 29-year-old has appeared in multiple Pro Bowls throughout his career, bringing credibility and production to Houston’s backfield. His presence allows the coaching staff to maintain their preferred offensive approach rather than drastically altering their scheme to accommodate lesser talent.
Chubb’s 4.2 yards per carry average ranks as respectable production given the circumstances. He’s absorbed the bulk of carries while demonstrating durability that allows Houston to lean on the running game when needed during crucial situations.
Missed opportunity for dynamic duo
The prospect of pairing Mixon and Chubb in the same backfield generated excitement before the injury situation became clear. Two proven veterans with complementary skill sets could have created matchup nightmares for opposing defenses throughout the season.
That combination would have given Houston flexibility in their offensive approach, allowing them to feature different running styles based on game situations and opponent weaknesses. The depth would also have kept both players fresher throughout the grueling season schedule.
Instead, the Texans must proceed with Chubb as their workhorse back supported by Marks’ emerging contributions. This arrangement lacks the star power Houston envisioned but provides enough competency to remain competitive in their division.
Recovery timeline extends into next offseason
Mixon’s placement on the PUP list means his rehabilitation will continue through the remainder of 2025 and into the offseason. The severity of foot and ankle injuries often requires extended recovery periods, particularly for running backs whose positions demand explosive cutting and acceleration.
The extended absence allows Mixon to focus entirely on regaining full health without rushing back prematurely. This approach prioritizes his long-term career over short-term contributions, protecting the investment Houston made when they brought him to Texas.
The Texans will enter the 2026 offseason with questions about Mixon’s readiness to resume his featured role. His age and injury history will factor into those discussions as the organization evaluates their backfield composition moving forward. For now, Houston’s ground game rests in the capable hands of Chubb and the developing Marks as they navigate a season without their intended lead runner.
