Joe Mixon, the Houston Texans' running back, did not participate in practice on Thursday due to an ankle injury. His status for the upcoming game against the Vikings is uncertain, especially with backup Dameon Pierce also sidelined with a hamstring issue. If both players are unable to play, Cam Akers is expected to take on a larger role in the Texans' backfield. Earlier in the offseason, Mixon expressed that he trained harder than ever in preparation for a significant workload in his first season with the Texans after leaving the Bengals.
- Joe Mixon's practice absence raises concerns for his availability against the Vikings.
- Dameon Pierce's injury compounds the uncertainty in the Texans' backfield.
- Cam Akers could see increased usage if both Mixon and Pierce are out.