KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Joe Mixon was active for the Texans’ divisional playoff game against the Chiefs on Saturday after the Pro Bowl running back had shown up on the injury report with an ankle problem and missed practice late in the week.
Houston linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair (knee), right guard Shaq Mason (knee), offensive lineman Juice Scruggs (ankle), and wide receiver Robert Woods (hip) were also active. Woods, who did not practice all week and had been listed as questionable, managed to be available for the critical matchup.
Mixon, at 28 years old, had been dealing with an ankle injury sustained in Week 2 against the Bears, causing him to miss the subsequent three weeks. Despite this setback, he has displayed resilience by participating in all games since then. However, his ankle appeared to have been re-aggravated during Week 15 against Miami, impacting his performance towards the end of the game.
In a significant contribution to the Texans’ recent 32-12 wild-card victory over the Chargers, Mixon rushed for 106 yards and a touchdown, positioning the team for a potential shot at reaching the AFC championship for the first time. This marked the first time a Texans running back had surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark in the postseason since Arian Foster achieved the feat back in 2012.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans praised Mixon for instilling confidence in the team, emphasizing his commitment and leadership both on and off the field. Mixon’s versatility has been particularly valued within a Houston offense that suffered losses due to season-ending injuries to wide receivers Tank Dell and Stefon Diggs. His ability to catch passes – amassing 36 receptions for 309 yards and a touchdown this season – along with his adeptness in providing protection for quarterback C.J. Stroud in the passing game, has significantly bolstered the team’s performance.
Speaking on Mixon’s impact, Stroud expressed gratitude for the running back’s support in ensuring proper alignments and shouldering some of the offensive responsibilities. Mixon’s presence has not only alleviated pressure on Stroud but has also facilitated a cohesive playing dynamic that has been instrumental in the team’s successive playoff victories.
In preparation for the game against Kansas City, Houston opted to deactivate running back J.J. Taylor, linebacker Devin White, defensive end Jerry Hughes, defensive tackle Kurt Hinish, and offensive linemen Kendrick Green and Nick Broeker.
On the Chiefs’ side, cornerback Jaylen Watson made a return to the active roster after recovering from an ankle injury sustained on Oct. 20 during a game against San Francisco. Watson, who had secured a starting position during training camp and was displaying standout performances before his injury, underwent a week of practice without setbacks, earning his place back in the lineup.
Acknowledging Watson’s dedication to his recovery, Chiefs coach Andy Reid commended the cornerback for his hard work and determination to reclaim
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