The Houston Texans have released running back Joe Mixon after he missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. The move saves Houston $8 million in cap space and comes after Mixon's mysterious injury during the offseason prevented him from participating in any team activities. The Texans never disclosed specifics about the injury.

Mixon, 29, was placed on the non-football injury list at the end of training camp, which automatically sidelined him for four games. Despite hopes he could return, his foot never healed properly. Houston relied on rookie Woody Marks, who led the team with 703 rushing yards, and free agent signing Nick Chubb, who added 506 yards. The Texans finished 22nd in the NFL in rushing yards per game at 108.

The release follows Houston's acquisition of David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions earlier this week as the team looks to improve its ground game. Mixon had been acquired from the Cincinnati Bengals in March 2024 and signed a three-year, $27 million contract extension with $13 million guaranteed.