After a hot start to the year, the Houston Texans have had a rough go of it over the last month or so of the 2024 season.
But they still sit atop the AFC South and are on track to win their second consecutive divisional title as long as they don't have an epic collapse in their final five games.
While their passing game has struggled, their running game has been very effective this season, thanks to acquiring Joe Mixon in the offseason. Their selection in a new A to Z Sports mock draft ensures that success in the run game isn't just a one-year wonder.
Texans land Heisman candidate Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty in a new mock draft
"With Joe Mixon only signed through this season, the Texans are going to have an interesting decision to make. Investing in someone like Jeanty, and on a cheaper contract, is probably the way to go. Jeanty also might just be too good to pass up."
- New 3 Round A to Z Sports Mock Draft
The Texans' decision to acquire Joe Mixon from the Cincinnati Bengals in the offseason has proven to be a very smart move. In the nine games he's appeared in, he has recorded 786 yards and ten rushing touchdowns, as well as 23 receptions for 226 yards and an additional touchdown. He's already surpassed Texans starting RB Devin Singletary from a year ago in touchdowns and is only 113 yards away from reaching his rushing yards total.
Getting a boost like this in the run game has been big for the Texans' offense. But Mixon is set to become a free agent this offseason, which poses the question of whether or not the Texans plan on re-signing him. If they decide not to pay the price Mixon is looking for, they might be forced to turn to the draft. The top option in the 2025 NFL Draft class is Boise State's RB and Heisman candidate, Ashton Jeanty.
Jeanty would be able to be the Texans' bell cow immediately and would come on a five-year rookie contract that would be less expensive than giving a veteran like Mixon a long-term contract. This would allow them to spend money elsewhere while also having a valuable piece to lead their run game and take some of the pressure off CJ Stroud and the passing game.
