Joe Mixon's NFL comeback has ended before it could really begin.
One day after reports broke that the Seattle Seahawks intended to sign the veteran running back to their practice squad, ESPN insider Adam Schefter has reported the deal is off. Mixon reportedly underwent a physical with Seattle as part of the process for inking his deal, and the Seahawks ultimately decided not to sign the running back.
Mixon, 30, missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury. The former Houston Texans running back suffered the "freak" injury in the 2025 offseason away from the team's facility, according to Texans general manager Nick Caserio. Houston released Mixon in March.
The nine-year NFL veteran has
remained a free agent since his release earlier this year. Mixon appeared set to make his NFL comeback when multiple reports from Monday, Oct. 5, indicated he was joining the practice squad of the reigning Super Bowl champions. There was a path to near-immediate playing time for Mixon as well, given the injuries to rookie Jadarian Price (chest) and veteran Zach Charbonnet (ACL tear recovery).
Instead, Mixon's physical results provided enough of a concern for the Seahawks to decide not to sign him. He remains a free agent.
In 2024, Mixon's most recent season, he tallied 1,016 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. He also had 36 catches for 309 receiving yards and an additional score in the air.
Seahawks RB depth chart
Without signing Mixon, the Seahawks will continue to test their depth at running back amid injuries to their top guys. Here's their current outlook entering Week 5:
- Zach Charbonnet (PUP – ACL recovery)
- Jadarian Price (IR – chest)
- Emanuel Wilson
- George Holani
- Velus Jones Jr.
- Robert Henry Jr.
Wilson and Holani are expected to lead the way in Seattle's run game going forward with Price out. Charbonnet is also nearing his 2026 debut after returning to practice ahead of Week 5.
In the meantime, the Seahawks needed depth. Seattle elevated Jones to their active roster from its practice squad on Saturday, Oct. 3. The Seahawks added more depth to their running backs room with Henry, whom they reportedly are signing off of the Washington Commanders' practice squad.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Seahawks back out of Joe Mixon deal, per reports. Here's why
