Joe Mixon was shocked by the Bengals' decision to trade him, but the veteran running back says he feels "wanted" by the Houston Texans.
He took the next 24 hours to process the news and overcome his sadness. But it wasn't until Mixon received a phone call from coach DeMeco Ryans that his sadness turned to encouragement.
Mixon revealed during his introductory press conference Thursday afternoon that Ryans and his staff shared their expectation and vision for him as Houston's new lead back. But more importantly, Mixon felt "wanted" by the franchise.
Two days after the trade, Mixon and the Texans agreed on a three-year contract extension worth $27.0 million, $13 million guaranteed, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.
"When I got on the phone with him, it was a hell of a feeling," Mixson said. "He embraced me. I am here. I definitely fit the culture of what they want to do and what they want to bring. It's a humbling time to be here. I am definitely ready and excited for this new beginning."
The 27-year-old running back is coming off his fourth career year of rushing for over 1,000 yards. Mixon finished his final season with the Bengals rushing for 1,034 yards on 257 attempts and nine touchdowns.
His best season came in 2021 when Mixon rushed for a career-best 1,205 yards on 292 carries and 13 touchdowns. His production helped the Bengals reach Super Bowl LVI, where Cincinnati fell 23-20 to the Los Angeles Rams. The Bengals' Super Bowl run also marked Mixon's lone Pro Bowl honor.
Mixon will fill a vacancy left by Devin Singletary in the Texans' offensive backfield, who signed a three-year contract to join the New York Giants following his lone season in Houston.
"I feel great being in this situation; I have a good group of guys around me," Mixon said. "This is definitely an exciting time."
Original Article: Coty M. Davis