Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans offered no update when pressed about running back Joe Mixon’s ankle injury, leaving questions unanswered as the team continues its preparations for the upcoming stretch of the season. The lack of clarity has fueled speculation about the severity of the injury and what it might mean for the Texans’ offense moving forward.
Mixon left practice earlier this week after appearing to tweak his ankle during a non-contact drill, and although initial reports suggested the injury was not major, the team has yet to provide a concrete timetable for his recovery. When asked directly about Mixon’s status, Ryans declined to go into detail, saying only that the team would handle things “internally” and that updates would come “when appropriate.” His response did little to calm concerns among fans eager to know whether the veteran running back will be available for the Texans’ upcoming games.
For Houston, Mixon represents a vital piece of the offense. Acquired this past offseason to bolster the running game, he was expected to bring both stability and explosiveness to a unit that has leaned heavily on young quarterback C.J. Stroud. Mixon’s ability to run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and protect in pass-blocking situations made him a cornerstone addition to an offense striving for balance. Without him, the Texans would be forced to rely more heavily on their depth chart, which includes Dameon Pierce and a collection of younger, less proven backs.
Pierce has shown flashes of potential in the past, particularly as a bruising runner capable of wearing down defenses, but he has struggled at times with consistency and injuries of his own. If Mixon’s absence stretches into multiple weeks, Pierce would likely assume the bulk of the carries, while Houston may also turn to situational backs to shoulder the load. The team could even explore external options if the injury lingers, though no such moves have been discussed publicly.
Ryans’ decision to keep details close to the vest reflects a growing trend among NFL coaches, many of whom are reluctant to provide transparency about injuries. In part, this stems from competitive concerns, as teams prefer not to give opponents an advantage in preparing their defensive game plans. Still, the silence often frustrates fans and media, who are left to speculate about how significant an injury might be and what it means for the team’s short-term outlook.
Mixon’s health is particularly crucial given the Texans’ ambitions in the AFC. After a breakout campaign in 2024 that saw Stroud establish himself as one of the league’s rising stars, Houston entered this season with elevated expectations. The team has been widely viewed as a legitimate contender in a crowded conference, but their ability to maintain that status hinges in part on having a reliable ground game to complement their young quarterback. A prolonged absence for Mixon could put additional pressure on Stroud and the Texans’ passing attack to shoulder the offensive load.
In the locker room, teammates have been quick to voice support for Mixon while maintaining confidence in the next-man-up mentality. Several players noted that injuries are part of the game and that the Texans have built enough depth to adapt. Still, the tone suggested that Mixon’s absence would be felt if he is sidelined for any significant period.
As the week progresses, all eyes will remain on Houston’s injury reports and practice participation updates to see whether Mixon takes the field. Until the Texans provide more clarity, speculation will continue, and fans will be left to wonder whether the team’s star running back is dealing with a minor setback or something more concerning
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