Joe Mixon went from one side of the United States to the other earlier this off-season to the sound of many boos and cheers. The running back was traded from the Cincinnati Bengals to the Houston Texans, heading from the northern border to the southern border.

Mixon’s geographical location fell on the map and his ranking appeared to match the drop.

In a recent article posted by Pro Football Network, the staff agreed that Mixon is the 22nd best running back in the NFL. Here’s how they defended the ranking.

“Never a particularly efficient back, Joe Mixon still finished 2023 with over 1,000 rushing yards for the fourth time in seven seasons. He also topped 50 catches for the second consecutive season. But it wasn’t enough to prevent his departure from the Cincinnati Bengals, who traded the 27-year-old to the Houston Texans this offseason,” the article said.

In other words, it seemed that the staff questioned why the Bengals were willing to let him go. On top of that, his age is a concern as well at 27. With many star running backs exiting their prime at 28 years old, any sign of a downtick after one’s rookie deal is a cause for concern for analysts.

Joe Mixon’s ranking places dark spot on bright 2024 offseason

The Texans enjoyed a season to remember in 2023. CJ Stroud proved himself to be an instant sensation. He also opened the door to potentially challenge Patrick Mahomes for the AFC crown this season.

Then, to put the cherry on top, the Texans went all-in this offseason. They obtained Stefon Diggs and Danielle Hunter in the spring, adding a sizable bevy of talent to the roster.

Of course, Mixon was included in the influx of talent. Had the running back been the only major addition, his lower ranking might have changed the tone of Houston’s offseason for some. However, the Texans adding Mixon alongside Hunter and Diggs diversifies their investments. If one player doesn’t quite work out, the team has other players that could improve the unit as a whole.

That said, Diggs has shown enough in the last two years to create anxiety, with more than one full season worth of games in the last two years in which he failed to earn at least 100 yards in a game. Still, as a bonus to Tank Dell, the offense has reason to believe they can take off even better this season.

Perhaps Joe Mixon can be an integral cog for the Texans in 2024.