The Houston Texans have been actively enhancing their team this offseason, particularly through significant moves in free agency. One notable transaction involved a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals for running back Joe Mixon, supplemented by a three-year, $27 million extension with $13 million guaranteed.
This acquisition addressed a major gap in their roster with one of the NFL’s premier running backs, all the while compensating him less than many others in his position.
However, despite the apparent strength of this move, it received criticism from The 33rd Team, which suggested that the Texans could have pursued better and more cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing draft assets. The outlet pointed out that the Bengals intended to release Mixon, raising questions about the decision to trade for him and commit to a relatively high contract considering his age.
While this critique highlights valid concerns on the surface, it overlooks several key factors. Primarily, the Texans had missed out on their primary targets for the running back position, including Saquon Barkley and Devin Singletary. Additionally, other top-tier running backs were also off the market, leaving the Texans with limited options. Moreover, waiting for Mixon to be released by the Bengals would have invited competition from other teams interested in acquiring him.
