HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Texans are facing a significant dilemma at running back after the sudden emergence of Ty Chandler. What was initially a routine season took an unexpected turn when starting running back Joe Mixon tore his bicep during the final moments of the Texans’ victory over the Chicago Bears. Before the injury, Mixon had been performing solidly, recording 141 rushing yards and three touchdowns, but it was his role as a receiving threat that stood out. With 12 receptions for 157 yards, Mixon was flourishing in a dual-threat capacity that made him a cornerstone of Houston’s offense.
However, Mixon’s injury, which is expected to sideline him for around eight weeks, forced the Texans’ coaching staff into scramble mode. With few appealing options on the free-agent market, they turned their attention to Minnesota’s practice squad, where Ty Chandler, a largely untested but promising back, had quietly been waiting for his opportunity. Once the Texans made Chandler an offer, he quickly signed, eager to prove he belonged in the pros.
What’s happened since Chandler’s arrival has sparked a growing controversy. Over just two games, Chandler has racked up an impressive 296 rushing yards and two touchdowns, averaging over 9 yards per carry. He has also contributed as a receiver, hauling in 11 catches for 95 yards and another touchdown. His quick acceleration, field vision, and elusiveness have left many Texans fans wondering if Chandler could be more than just a temporary replacement.
Now, with Mixon’s return from injury on the horizon, head coach Sean Nguyen is faced with a tough decision. Does he hand the starting role back to Mixon, the proven veteran, or continue riding the hot hand in Chandler?
“Joe’s been a huge part of what we do, no question about it,” Nguyen said in a recent press conference. “But we’re also really impressed with how Ty has stepped up. He’s been everything we hoped for and more.”
The situation is complicated further by their differing skill sets. While Mixon has shown more prowess as a receiver out of the backfield, Chandler has proven himself as a more traditional workhorse, consistently moving the chains with power running and an ability to break long gains.
Texans offensive coordinator Nick Gregory weighed in as well, acknowledging the team’s upcoming challenge. “It’s a good problem to have. Both Joe and Ty have unique strengths, and they’re both capable of leading our offense. We’ll see how things look when Joe’s fully healthy.”
With Mixon’s estimated recovery time setting him up for a potential return in Week 10, the Texans’ decision could significantly impact their playoff push. While Chandler’s meteoric rise has garnered attention, Mixon’s steady reliability, particularly as a receiving back, can’t be overlooked.
Texans fans are already debating who should start once Mixon is ready to go. Some argue that Chandler has earned the right to remain the feature back, citing his explosive play. Others believe that Mixon, with his proven track record and versatility, is simply too valuable to bench.
As the Texans eye a potential postseason berth, Coach Nguyen’s decision could prove pivotal in determining whether the team continues its upward trajectory or falters in the crowded AFC playoff race.
For now, the running back controversy remains unresolved, but one thing is certain: the Texans have two highly capable backs, and it’s a good dilemma for a team hoping to make a deep run this season.
