DeMeco Ryans, head coach of the Houston Texans, dismisses concerns about Joe Mixon’s potential decline and expresses confidence in the running back’s abilities to elevate the team’s offense.
The Houston Texans recently traded for running back Joe Mixon, adding a veteran presence to their backfield. Despite Mixon turning 28 and having significant mileage, head coach DeMeco Ryans anticipates a positive contribution from the former Cincinnati Bengal. Ryans emphasized Mixon’s consistent career performance, highlighting his ability to move the chains and contribute to the passing game.
Ryans’ Confidence in Mixon’s Abilities
Ryans firmly believes that Mixon’s experience and skillset will significantly benefit the Texans’ offense. He dismissed concerns about a potential decline in production, focusing instead on Mixon’s proven track record. Ryans cited Mixon’s consistent ability to gain yardage, catch passes out of the backfield, and open up offensive opportunities as key reasons for his optimism. The Texans’ investment in Mixon, evidenced by a three-year, $27 million contract extension, underscores their belief in his continued effectiveness.
Mixon’s Career Performance and Statistics
Mixon is coming off a 2023 season where he rushed for over 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging four yards per carry. While his efficiency might appear average, it aligns with his career average. Drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, Mixon had a breakout season in his second year, exceeding 1,100 rushing yards and scoring eight touchdowns with a remarkable 4.9 yards per carry average. Although he hasn’t replicated that level of efficiency since, he earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 after accumulating over 1,200 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
Mixon’s Fit in the Texans’ Offensive Scheme
Mixon joins a developing Texans offense led by second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud, who had an impressive rookie season. The combination of Stroud’s passing ability and Mixon’s running prowess creates a potentially dynamic offensive attack. Ryans expects Mixon to be a crucial component in the team’s offensive strategy, utilizing his versatility to both run the ball effectively and contribute to the passing game.
The Future of the Texans’ Offense
The Texans are betting on Mixon’s ability to remain a productive running back despite his age and previous workload. His consistent performance throughout his career suggests he can continue to be a valuable asset. The pairing of Mixon with a young and talented quarterback like Stroud offers a promising outlook for the Texans’ offense. The team’s success will depend on how effectively Ryans and the coaching staff can integrate Mixon into their offensive scheme and maximize his potential alongside other key players. Only time will tell if the gamble on Mixon pays off for the Texans.
