The New York Giants' desire to add a high-profile running back is one of the worst-kept secrets of this offseason. They've been linked to the biggest names out there, like reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III and Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love. But what about Joe Mixon?
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Houston Texans released Mixon. The news shouldn't come as much — if any — of a surprise following veteran tailback David Montgomery's arrival in Space City. However, this presents the Giants with another worthwhile option to explore, one who has a notably strong tie to the Giants.
New Giants quarterbacks coach/passing game coordinator Brian Callahan's tenure as the Cincinnati Bengals' offensive coordinator from 2019 through 2023 intersected with Mixon's seven-year term. Will New York tap into their network, or do they prefer to make an outside addition?
Joe Mixon's Texans release gives Giants another RB move to explore this offseason
It's fairly common for players to follow coaches to their next stop(s), and vice versa, especially if the two sides enjoyed success together. So, Mixon's availability and connection to Callahan at least raises the topic of a potential reunion in East Rutherford. The former was a key piece of the latter's game plan during their overlapping stints with the Bengals.Â
Mixon isn't the most efficient runner, but he's a workhorse in every sense of the word. While it wasn't always pretty, his usage and production with Callahan in Cincy ranked among the top in the NFL during that stretch.
Here’s where Mixon sits in the following categories across five campaigns with Callahan contributing to the Bengals’ play-calling operation (h/t StatMuse):
- Fourth in carries (1,156)
- Ninth in rushing yards (4,618)
- 11th in rushing touchdowns (37)
- 13th in scrimmage yards (6,174)
Barring any concerning updates about the mysterious foot injury that sidelined him for all of 2025, Mixon will garner interest from backfield-needy clubs. While the Giants don’t exactly fall into that bucket, their interest in Love and Walker clearly indicates that they want another back.
Nevertheless, it's fair to wonder if Mixon has any gas left in the tank. The two-time Pro Bowler’s health status remains murky, and he reaches the notorious age-30 mark for bell-cows of his ilk. With that in mind, the odds may be stacked against him to return to form.
For what it's worth, Mixon looked no worse for wear when we saw him in 2024. His 281 touches yielded 1,325 scrimmage yards (1,016 rushing, 36 receptions for 309 receiving yards) and 12 scores.