Texans RB Joe Mixon Returns to NFL’s Top 100

Texans RB Joe Mixon Returns to NFL’s Top 100 originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Joe Mixon has reclaimed his spot among the NFL’s elite, and the league is paying attention.

In his first season with the Houston Texans, the veteran running back delivered a standout campaign that earned him the No. 58 spot on the NFL’s Top 100 players list for 2024.

Mixon finished the season with 245 carries for 1,016 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, becoming the first Texans back to reach 11 rushing scores since Arian Foster in 2012.

Mixon also proved to be more than just a ground threat, hauling in 36 receptions for 309 yards and a receiving touchdown. His ability to contribute as a dynamic, three-down back added to the Texans’ offense and played a key role in their second straight AFC South title.

The former Cincinnati Bengals star was traded to Houston last offseason and quickly silenced any doubts about what he had left in the tank. His consistency, leadership and versatility helped turn the Texans’ backfield into a legitimate force.

Now entering his ninth NFL season, Mixon is dealing with a lingering foot injury that landed him on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list to start training camp.

While the Texans expect Mixon to return before the start of the season, Houston’s backfield will have a new look in 2025 with the arrival of former All-Pro Nick Chubb.

Mixon is still projected to lead the charge, but the two backs are likely to share carries. The hope is that if the duo can stay healthy, they can power the Texans to their first-ever AFC title appearance.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 30, 2025, where it first appeared.