Texans in Crisis? Joe Mixon Injury Forces Desperate RB Search!
The Houston Texans are scrambling! Joe Mixon's unexpected placement on the reserve/non-football injury list (NFI) means he'll be sidelined for at least the first four games of the 2025 season. This leaves a gaping hole in their running back corps, forcing them to explore all available options before their Week 1 clash with the Los Angeles Rams.
While the Texans brought in veteran Nick Chubb during free agency and drafted Woody Marks, questions remain. Chubb's performance has declined, and Marks is a late-round pick. This prompts the question: Who will carry the load for Houston?
Audric Estime: A Potential Solution?
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report suggests former Denver Broncos running back Audric Estime as a possible answer. Estime, despite a promising rookie season with the Broncos, was recently waived. His availability makes him an intriguing target for the Texans.
"A powerful runner at Notre Dame, Estime averaged a solid 4.1 yards per carry as a rookie for the Denver Broncos last season," Knox wrote. "However, he was waived as part of Denver's backfield makeover. His combination of youth and upside makes him an intriguing target."
Estime's Potential Impact
Estime, a former fifth-round pick, had a stellar college career, highlighted by 1,341 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in his final season at Notre Dame. His size (5-foot-11, 227 pounds) and power make him a potential asset in short-yardage situations. At just 22 years old, Estime has the potential to develop into a more complete back, and Mixon's absence could provide him with the opportunities he needs to prove himself.
The Texans will be without Mixon for games against the Rams, Buccaneers, Jaguars, and Titans. The veteran Mixon is coming off a Pro Bowl season, where he rushed for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. His absence will be felt, and the Texans need to find a reliable replacement quickly.
The Broncos are not expected to re-sign Estime to their practice squad, making him a free agent. Will the Texans take a chance on the young running back?