Joe Mixon: Is He Playing This Year? Latest NFL Rumors, Injury Update, Age and Comeback News

Joe Mixon is an American football running back who has made a name for himself in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans. However, a serious foot injury kept him off the field throughout the 2025 season and raised questions about the future of his professional career.

As of October 2026, Mixon is still a free agent and has not officially signed with an NFL team. However, recent news has sparked fresh hope among fans after the veteran running back hinted at a possible comeback, saying, “I’m back, baby!” in a video shared on social media.

Is Joe Mixon Playing This Year?

Joe Mixon is not currently playing in the NFL during the 2026 season. The veteran running back remains a free agent after being released by the Houston Texans in March 2026.

Mixon missed the entire 2025 season because of a foot injury that failed to improve as expected. His absence was a significant setback for Houston, which had relied on him as its starting running back during the previous season.

Although Mixon has recently hinted at returning to football, no NFL team has officially signed him as of October 4, 2026. Therefore, his return to the field remains uncertain.

His latest social media video has nevertheless renewed interest in his future. While the message suggests that he is optimistic about making a comeback, it does not confirm that he is medically cleared or ready to play in an NFL game.

Is Joe Mixon Playing in the 2026 NFL Season?

Joe Mixon has not played in the 2026 NFL season so far. He entered the year as an unrestricted free agent after his departure from the Texans.

Reports in July 2026 suggested that Mixon was unlikely to return to professional football. He reportedly underwent another surgery to address complications involving blood flow to his foot, following the injury that sidelined him in 2025.

However, his recent comeback message has changed the conversation around his future. Mixon has expressed renewed confidence, although there is no confirmed return date.

If he receives medical clearance and finds a team willing to sign him, he could potentially return to the NFL. For now, fans will have to wait for an official announcement about his playing status.

Joe Mixon Injury Update: What Happened to Him?

Joe Mixon suffered a serious foot injury during the 2025 offseason while preparing for the NFL season. The injury was described by Texans general manager Nick Caserio as a “freak” medical situation.

Mixon initially hoped to recover and return to action. However, his condition did not improve sufficiently, and he remained on the non-football injury list throughout the season.

His recovery reportedly involved surgery, and further complications led to another operation in 2026. Reports indicated that blood-flow issues in his foot contributed to his prolonged absence.

The injury ultimately ended his time with Houston. The Texans released him in March 2026, leaving his NFL future uncertain.

Joe Mixon Comeback Rumors: Is He Returning to the NFL?

Joe Mixon’s NFL comeback rumors gained momentum in October 2026 after he shared a video on social media that appeared to signal his return to football.

In the video, Mixon declared, “Let’s Go! I’m back, baby!” The message has generated renewed interest in his career, particularly among fans who have followed his recovery.

Earlier reports had suggested that Mixon might never play another NFL game. In July, reports indicated that he had told former Bengals teammates that his career was over, although a source close to him reportedly maintained some hope of a return.

Despite the encouraging message, there is an important distinction between announcing a desire to return and actually resuming professional football.

Mixon remains unsigned, and no official agreement with the Bengals, Texans or another NFL franchise has been announced. His medical condition and ability to return to game-level fitness will likely play a major role in determining his next move.

How Old Is Joe Mixon?

Joe Mixon is 30 years old as of October 2026. He was born on July 24, 1996, in Oakley, California, United States.

Mixon entered the NFL as a young running back with considerable potential. Over the years, he established himself as a productive offensive player, combining rushing ability with reliable receiving skills.

Joe Mixon Career and NFL Performance

Joe Mixon began his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals after being selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, 48th overall.

He spent seven seasons with Cincinnati from 2017 to 2023, becoming one of the team’s leading offensive players. During that period, he recorded 6,412 rushing yards and 49 rushing touchdowns in 97 regular-season games.

In 2024, Mixon joined the Houston Texans, where he delivered an impressive debut season. He recorded 1,016 rushing yards, 11 rushing touchdowns and 309 receiving yards during the regular season. He also earned Pro Bowl recognition for his performance.

Key career highlights

• Selected 48th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft.

• Played seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.

• Became a key part of the Bengals’ offensive backfield.

• Earned Pro Bowl honors during his NFL career.

• Recorded 1,016 rushing yards in his first season with Houston.

• Missed the entire 2025 season because of a foot injury.

His performance in 2024 demonstrated that he could still be an effective running back before the injury interrupted his career.

Joe Mixon Rumors: Could He Rejoin the Bengals?

Joe Mixon’s possible return to the Cincinnati Bengals has become a topic of discussion following his recent comeback hint.

Mixon spent the first seven seasons of his NFL career with Cincinnati and developed a strong connection with the organization and its fans. However, there has been no confirmed report that the Bengals are negotiating a new contract with him.

Any potential reunion would depend on his recovery, fitness and the team’s running back requirements. Other NFL franchises could also consider him if he demonstrates that he can play effectively.

At present, rumors about a return to Cincinnati remain speculative. His social media message has encouraged fans, but it is not confirmation of a deal with any team.

Will Joe Mixon Play Again?

Joe Mixon has not officially announced his retirement, and his recent message suggests that he is interested in returning to football.

Nevertheless, his foot injury remains the biggest concern. He missed an entire season and reportedly required additional surgery in 2026. His ability to recover fully will be crucial to any potential comeback.

If Mixon receives medical clearance and an NFL team offers him a contract, he could have an opportunity to continue his career. However, until those developments occur, his return remains uncertain.

Conclusion

Joe Mixon is not currently playing in the 2026 NFL season and remains a free agent after his release from the Houston Texans. The 30-year-old running back missed the entire 2025 season because of a serious foot injury, which also raised concerns about his long-term future.

His October 2026 comeback message has revived hopes of seeing him back on the field. However, there is no confirmed contract or official return date. His recovery and a potential opportunity with an NFL team will determine what comes next in his career.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Joe Mixon playing this year?

No. As of October 4, 2026, Joe Mixon has not played in the NFL this season and remains a free agent.

2. Is Joe Mixon returning to the NFL in 2026?

Mixon recently hinted at a comeback on social media, but he has not officially confirmed his return to the NFL.

3. How old is Joe Mixon?

Joe Mixon is 30 years old. He was born on July 24, 1996.

4. Why is Joe Mixon not playing?

Mixon missed the 2025 season because of a serious foot injury. Further complications and surgery in 2026 have delayed his return.

5. Which team does Joe Mixon play for?

Joe Mixon is currently a free agent. He previously played for the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans.

6. Was Joe Mixon released by the Texans?

Yes. The Houston Texans released Mixon in March 2026 after his foot injury kept him out for the entire 2025 season.

7. Is Joe Mixon retired?

Mixon has not officially announced his retirement. Although reports suggested he was unlikely to play again, his recent comeback message has raised hopes of a return.