The Pro Bowl running back turns 29 on Thursday while recovering from an offseason ankle injury that required him to wear a walking boot throughout spring practices.
Joe Mixon finds himself on the Houston Texans’ non-football injury list as training camp officially begins on July 23, 2025. The 28-year-old running back, who celebrates his 29th birthday on Thursday, continues recovering from an ankle injury sustained during individual offseason training earlier this year.
The Walking Boot Recovery Timeline
Joe Mixon spent much of the spring wearing a walking boot after injuring his ankle during individual offseason workouts. The injury occurred away from team facilities, which explains his placement on the non-football injury (NFI) list rather than the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
According to KPRC 2 Houston’s Aaron Wilson, Mixon has made significant progress in his recovery. The veteran running back recently transitioned from the walking boot to an ankle brace and has regained his mobility while ramping up his workout intensity throughout the summer.
” doing great, per league sources, after being sidelined in the spring with an ankle injury,” Wilson reported. “The Pro Bowl selection was in a walking boot at one point in the spring after getting hurt during individual offseason training before regaining his mobility and health as he has ramped up his workouts all summer.”
Texans’ Cautious Approach to Star Player
The Texans plan to ease Joe Mixon back into practice gradually during the early stages of training camp. This measured approach reflects both the team’s investment in their star running back and their understanding of his crucial role in their championship aspirations.
Houston signed Mixon to a three-year, $27 million extension after acquiring him from the Cincinnati Bengals for a seventh-round pick in March 2024. The deal made him the NFL’s sixth-highest-paid running back and demonstrated the franchise’s commitment to building around him.
Despite the injury concerns, team sources remain optimistic about Mixon’s Week 1 availability. His medical outlook is positive, and the gradual reintegration into team activities suggests the Texans are taking necessary precautions rather than dealing with a serious long-term issue.
Remarkable 2024 Season Performance
Joe Mixon silenced critics following his trade from Cincinnati with an outstanding debut season in Houston. He rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns while averaging 4.1 yards per carry in 14 regular season games.
The veteran running back also contributed 36 receptions for 309 yards and one touchdown, demonstrating his versatility in the passing game. His performance earned him his second Pro Bowl selection and established him as a cornerstone of the Texans’ offensive success.
Mixon’s rushing totals marked his fifth career 1,000-yard season, tying for his second-best touchdown production in eight NFL seasons. His impact helped Houston win the AFC South division title and advance to the divisional round of the playoffs.
Nick Chubb Addition Provides Insurance
The Texans’ decision to sign Nick Chubb to a one-year, $2.5 million contract in June provides valuable depth while Joe Mixon recovers. The four-time Pro Bowler joins Houston after seven seasons with the Cleveland Browns, where he accumulated 6,843 rushing yards.
Chubb’s signing raised questions about Mixon’s injury status among some observers. Dr. Jesse Morse, a prominent sports medicine physician, expressed concern about the Texans’ rush to add backfield depth, noting Mixon’s ankle issues from the 2024 season.
However, the signing appears more strategic than reactionary. At 29 years old, Chubb provides veteran experience while potentially forming a dynamic duo with Mixon when both are healthy. The arrangement also protects against the physical demands of a full NFL season.
Dameon Pierce Also Begins Camp on PUP List
Joe Mixon isn’t the only Texans running back dealing with injury concerns entering training camp. Former third-round pick Dameon Pierce was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to an undisclosed injury.
Pierce’s absence opens additional opportunities for other backs in the rotation. Rookie Woody Marks, selected in the fourth round from USC, could see increased first-team repetitions while both veterans recover.
The USC product brings exceptional pass-catching ability to Houston’s backfield. During his lone season with the Trojans, Marks accumulated 1,133 rushing yards and 47 receptions, showcasing the versatility that attracted the Texans’ attention.
Historical Context of Ankle Struggles
Joe Mixon’s current ankle issues connect to previous injuries that hampered him during the 2024 season. He missed three games early in the season due to a high ankle sprain suffered on what many observers called a hip-drop tackle.
The veteran running back reaggravated the ankle injury later in the season but played through the discomfort on limited snaps. His ability to compete through pain demonstrated his value to the team while highlighting the persistent nature of ankle problems.
Ankle injuries frequently plague NFL running backs due to the position’s physical demands. The cutting, acceleration, and contact inherent to the position place tremendous stress on ankle joints throughout a season.
Championship Window Motivations
The Texans’ careful handling of Joe Mixon reflects their belief in a legitimate championship window. Houston reached the divisional round in consecutive seasons under head coach DeMeco Ryans, establishing themselves as AFC contenders.
Third-year quarterback C.J. Stroud’s development coincides with a talented supporting cast that includes receiver Nico Collins and an improving defense. The combination creates pressure to maximize every opportunity while Stroud remains on his rookie contract.
Mixon’s health becomes crucial to these championship aspirations. His ability to control games through rushing and provide relief for Stroud’s passing attack makes him irreplaceable in Houston’s offensive system.
Training Camp Competition Dynamics
While Joe Mixon remains the undisputed starter when healthy, his absence creates opportunities for other players to showcase their abilities. Nick Chubb will likely receive extensive first-team repetitions during the early stages of camp.
The competition extends beyond just replacing Mixon’s carries. The Texans need to identify reliable contributors for various packages and game situations throughout the season.
Woody Marks faces particular pressure as a fourth-round rookie. His pass-catching skills differentiate him from other backs, but he must prove his value in pass protection and special teams to earn a roster spot.
Medical Outlook and Timeline
Reports suggest Joe Mixon’s ankle injury isn’t considered serious despite the cautious approach. The transition from walking boot to ankle brace indicates positive healing progression over the past month.
The non-football injury designation allows the Texans flexibility in managing his return timeline. Players on the NFI list can be activated at any point during training camp without penalty.
Houston’s medical staff likely prefers gradual progression rather than rushing their star player back to full participation. The approach prioritizes long-term health over immediate availability for early camp practices.
Financial Investment Justifies Caution
The Texans’ $27 million investment in Joe Mixon over three years justifies their cautious approach to his injury management. Protecting that investment requires balancing immediate needs with long-term durability.
Mixon’s contract structure includes guaranteed money that ensures his roster spot regardless of early camp absence. The financial commitment reflects Houston’s belief in his continued elite production capabilities.
The team’s salary cap management also factors into injury decisions. Losing significant investment due to preventable setbacks would compromise their ability to maintain competitive roster construction.
Offensive Coordinator Change Impact
New offensive coordinator Nick Caley takes over a unit that ranked 18th in scoring last season. His system may reduce some physical demands on Joe Mixon while maximizing efficiency in the running game.
Caley’s background includes experience with pass-catching running backs during his time with the New England Patriots. This expertise could benefit both Mixon and the younger backs competing for roster spots.
The coordinator change also provides opportunity to develop creative packages that utilize multiple running backs simultaneously. Such schemes could reduce individual workloads while maintaining offensive productivity.
Looking Ahead to Week 1
Despite current limitations, expectations remain high for Joe Mixon’s Week 1 availability against the Indianapolis Colts. The September 8 season opener provides sufficient time for complete recovery from his ankle injury.
The Texans’ training camp schedule allows for gradual progression throughout August. Early limitations could actually benefit Mixon by reducing unnecessary wear while maintaining his conditioning through individual work.
Houston’s medical staff has successfully managed similar situations with other veterans. Their track record suggests confidence in returning players to full health by the start of the regular season.
Team Chemistry and Leadership
Joe Mixon’s presence extends beyond statistical production to team leadership and chemistry. His veteran experience provides stability for younger players while setting professional standards.
The running back’s work ethic during recovery demonstrates commitment that resonates throughout the locker room. His determination to overcome setbacks inspires teammates facing their own challenges.
Coach DeMeco Ryans has praised Mixon’s character and professionalism since his arrival in Houston. These intangible qualities make his health status even more significant for team success.
As training camp progresses, all eyes will focus on Joe Mixon’s return to full participation. His recovery timeline could significantly impact Houston’s offensive preparation and depth chart construction. The Texans’ championship aspirations may ultimately depend on their star running back’s ability to overcome this latest ankle setback and return to the Pro Bowl form that made him such a valuable acquisition.
The next few weeks will reveal whether the team’s cautious approach pays dividends or if concerns about Mixon’s durability prove justified. Either way, his 29th birthday marks another milestone in what the Texans hope will be a championship-caliber season.
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