The Houston Texans notched a critical victory in Week 13, downing the Indianapolis Colts in a 20-16 affair to move to 7-5 on the season, and they garnered attention multiple times from injured running back Joe Mixon.
Mixon is on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury (NFI) list with an undisclosed ankle and/or foot issue that is expected to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season.
However, Mixon has and remains engaged in what the Texans are doing.
Joe Mixon Praises Nico Collins
GettyNico Collins #12 of the Houston Texans celebrates after his rushing touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts.
It was C.J. Stroud’s first game back under center after a three-game concussion-related absence, which made Nico Collins happy. However, Mixon’s first message came in the fourth quarter, as Collins took an end-around 7 yards into the end zone, tying the game at 13-all.
“Love to see it 12 [praying hands emoji],” Mixon posted on X after the score.
Collins, who also had 98 yards on five receptions, spoke candidly about the win and the score, telling NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero that the win was “Major. It was a big win, man. We know it was a division team, man. The Colts, one hell of a team, and they playing great. And we know on the road, we had to come and bring it, man. So, man, proud of this team. I’m glad we fought all four quarters, man. It’s not an easy team to beat, man, but I’m glad we got the dub.
“I’m glad I’m a dawg back, man. You only get one brain, man. We got to take care of that. But I’m glad he’s healthy, I’m glad he’s back doing what he loved, and I’m glad we got to win.”
Collins is now up to 57 receptions for 795 yards. He is stuck on 4 receiving TDs, having last found paydirt through the air in Week 11. However, the rushing score was a career first for the 2024 Pro Bowler.
“I’ve been waiting on it,” Collins told Pelissero. “The team trusts me to get to get in the end zone, man. Once I got the opportunity, I had to get in there. I felt like Woody [Marks] back there. I had to go, man. Just get in the end zone. But, man, I’m glad we got the dub, I’m glad I got in the paint, and most importantly, I’m proud of this team.”
Joe Mixon Puts Bow on Texans’ Win Over Colts
GettyJoe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans looks on after facing the Los Angeles Chargers in the AFC Wild Card Playoffs.
The Texans, who have missed Mixon, ranked 23rd in rushing offense entering Week 13. But they have found a way, and the two-time Pro Bowler let it be known that they had vanquished their AFC South rivals, the Colts, in Week 13.
“BALLGAME,” Mixon said in another post.
Mixon’s celebrations of the team’s renewed success will not replace his presence on the football field.
It is, however, a telling note given the uncertainty around Mixon’s future with the Texans.
He is signed through the 2026 season. Texans general manager Nick Caserio could still opt to part ways with the former Cincinnati Bengals star this coming offseason if there remains no further clarity on his health.
For now, Mixon is a member of the Texans, if only in association, and is dialed in as Collins, Stroud, and their stellar defense lead the charge.
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