The Seattle Seahawks have abandoned plans to sign veteran running back Joe Mixon after his physical raised concerns, leaving the team to rely on in-house options despite injuries at the position.
The Seattle Seahawks have reversed course on signing Joe Mixon, ending a brief pursuit that had the 30-year-old running back in contention to join their practice squad. Multiple sources, including ESPN’s Adam Schefter, confirmed the decision came after Mixon failed a medical evaluation, though the exact nature of the concerns remains undisclosed.
Mixon’s Injury History and Seahawks’ Initial Interest
Mixon’s NFL comeback attempt collapsed within 24 hours of initial reports. The Seahawks had signaled interest after a workout, with coach Mike Macdonald stating, We’re down runners.
We need running backs.
Mixon, who last played in 2025, had missed the entire season due to a foot injury — described by Texans GM Nick Caserio as a medical condition or situation that just — it didn’t really improve as much as everyone would have hoped.
The 30-year-old had previously posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons with the Bengals and Texans, including a 2024 campaign where he rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns. However, his 2025 absence — attributed to a “freak” foot injury away from the team — left the Seahawks hesitant. A source told The Big Lead that the Seahawks weren’t comfortable with what they saw after the doctor’s checkup.
Mixon’s NFL career spans eight seasons, during which he accumulated 7,429 rushing yards, 74 touchdowns (including receiving touchdowns), 2,448 receiving yards, and 14 touchdown catches. His most recent season with the Texans in 2024 saw him earn a Pro Bowl selection, tallying 1,016 rushing yards, 309 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns. Prior to that, he made the Pro Bowl during one and only year with the Texans, recording his fifth 1,000-yard rushing campaign after putting together four with the Bengals.
The Seahawks’ interest in Mixon emerged amid depth issues. Rookie Jadarian Price, the team’s primary back, was placed on injured reserve with a chest injury on Saturday, October 3, 2026, and veteran Zach Charbonnet remained sidelined with an ACL tear. Seattle’s running back depth chart now includes Emanuel Wilson, George Holani, Velus Jones Jr., and newly signed Robert Henry Jr., who was acquired from the Washington Commanders’ practice squad.
Team’s Depth Concerns and Alternative Moves
Macdonald acknowledged the challenges, saying, This is just what happens in football.
The coach emphasized reliance on current options: Emanuel Wilson, George Holani, and newly acquired Henry.
The Seahawks’ decision to pass on Mixon reflects a broader strategy of prioritizing internal solutions. Despite Mixon’s 2024 production, the team’s medical staff reportedly raised concerns about his 2025 foot injury, which Texans GM Caserio described as a medical condition or situation that just — it didn’t really improve as much as everyone would have hoped.
Mixon’s absence from the 2025 season, during which the Texans went to the playoffs, further complicated his prospects.
Seattle’s running back room now faces scrutiny. With Price expected to miss at least four games and Charbonnet’s return uncertain, the team’s reliance on backups has drawn attention.
What’s Next for Mixon and the Seahawks
Mixon, who had a three-year $27 million contract with the Texans before his 2025 injury, remains a free agent. His future in the league hinges on recovery and another team’s willingness to take a risk. For Seattle, the focus shifts to managing its current roster, with The Big Lead noting, It’s unclear if another team will give him another opportunity in the league.
The Seahawks’ decision underscores the NFL’s high-stakes medical evaluations. While Mixon’s past production — 7,429 rushing yards and 74 touchdowns over eight seasons — remains impressive, his 2025 absence and the team’s cautious approach highlight the league’s risk-averse culture. As the season progresses, the Seahawks' ability to cope with injuries will define their playoff hopes.
Mixon’s career trajectory includes seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he surpassed the 1,000-yard mark on the ground four times, and his lone year with the Texans, including his 2024 Pro Bowl campaign. His 2025 injury, which occurred away from the team’s facility, led to his release in March. The Seahawks’ initial interest in Mixon was fueled by the need to address their running back depth, but the medical concerns ultimately derailed the move.
The Seahawks’ current approach reflects a preference for proven backups over high-risk free agents. With Wilson and Holani as primary options, the team has opted to avoid adding another veteran with a questionable medical history. This strategy aligns with general manager John Schneider’s recent roster decisions. However, the Seahawks' focus remains on short-term solutions to manage injuries.
Mixon’s departure leaves the Seahawks with a lean running back group, but the team has expressed confidence in its current depth. Macdonald emphasized, We’re down runners.
We need running backs.
The team’s next challenge will be whether Wilson and Holani can sustain their performance as the season progresses.