The Cincinnati Bengals released veteran running back Joe Mixon on Monday evening according to widespread national reports. It represents the end of an era in Cincinnati after Mixon accounted for more than 8,500 all-purpose yards across seven successful seasons. The Bengals mercilessly replaced Mixon in the backfield by signing Zack Moss to a shrewd two-year contract worth $8 million in free agency.
Mixon now reaches the open market as a proven versatile commodity. The former Oklahoma standout should find a new home by the end of the week. Various contenders should possess an interest in what Mixon offers. We've identified three potential landing spots for Mixon's dual-threat services.
DALLAS COWBOYS
As of the morning of March 12, the Cowboys have the worst, most unproven backfield in the NFL. Starter Tony Pollard left the franchise by signing a three-year, $24 million contract with the Tennessee Titans. Pollard's departure frees up 307 touches in the offense.
Pollard struggled at times throughout 2023, but he did rush for a second consecutive 1,000-yard season. Pollard added 55 receptions to his offensive totals. Mixon, who caught 52 balls last year, is capable of handling a similar workload. The likes of Deuce Vaughn and Rico Dowdle (restricted free agent) aren't equipped to replace Pollard.
Adding a proven back a la Mixon would help starting quarterback Dak Prescott maintain a balanced approach on offense. Mixon's availability should immediately pique Dallas' interest.
HOUSTON TEXANS
The Texans made a bunch of shrewd signings on the defensive side of the ball on Monday. Denico Autry, Azeez Al-Shaair, and Jeff Okudah are joining DeMeco Ryans' already effective defense. Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio should now swiftly turn their attention to the offense.
Former Texans running back Devin Singletary just parlayed a career-best campaign into a lucrative multi-year contract with the New York Giants as Saquon Barkley’s replacement. Singletary was a workhorse last season, totaling 246 touches for 1,091 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns.
Caserio needs to sign an appropriate substitute for Singletary's workload. It'll be a by-committee approach with Dameon Pierce, who is looking to bounce back from a down campaign that saw him average 2.9 yards per carry in Bobby Slowik's offense. Sophomore-to-be franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud would appreciate Mixon's three-down abilities.
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
The Raiders lost Josh Jacobs to free agency on Monday. Jacobs signed a multi-year deal with the Green Bay Packers. General manager Tom Telesco reportedly possessed interest in reuniting with Austin Ekeler, but Ekeler decided to sign with the Washington Commanders instead. The Raiders are obviously in the market for a veteran running back. They should pivot to Mixon after missing out on Ekeler's signature.
Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce also revealed their quarterbacking plans for the 2024 season. Veteran journeyman Gardner Minshew was brought into the fold. The expectation is that Minshew will compete for starting duties with sophomore-to-be Aidan O'Connell. It's safe to assume the Raiders aren't going to field a pass-happy offense. Acquiring Mixon would alleviate some of the pressure off the quarterback's shoulders.