Texans GM Caserio on Mixon's status: "He's making progress, no specific timetable yet."

The Houston Texans are navigating their running game without Joe Mixon, who remains sidelined as he recovers from a foot injury sustained during the offseason.

Why it matters: Mixon's absence significantly impacts the Texans' offensive strategy as they look to establish a balanced attack in a competitive league.

• His potential return would not only bolster the ground game but also relieve pressure on the passing offense.
• Currently, the team is relying on veteran Nick Chubb and rookie Woody Marks to fill the void left by Mixon, creating uncertainty about their run efficiency.

What’s new: General Manager Nick Caserio provided an update, indicating that there is no specific timetable for Mixon’s return, stating, "I think probably over the next few weeks we'll probably have a better idea."

• This means the Texans may continue to split carries between Chubb and Marks for the foreseeable future, which could affect their overall performance and play-calling strategies.

By the numbers: Last season, Mixon showcased his talent with 1,016 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns in 2022, marking one of five 1,000-yard seasons in his eight-year career.

• His consistent production has made him a pivotal part of any offensive scheme, especially in a division where running backs can dictate game tempo.

Yes, but: While Chubb and Marks can provide valuable contributions, they lack Mixon's experience and explosive playmaking ability.

• Chubb, while a proven performer, is not as versatile in the passing game, limiting the Texans' options in a West Coast offense that thrives on short and intermediate passes to running backs.
• Rookie Marks has shown promise but lacks the NFL experience needed to shoulder the primary role effectively.

What to watch: Keep an eye on Mixon's recovery process and any updates on his status.

• As the Texans continue to evaluate their running back situation, decisions this week might influence their performance against upcoming opponents.

The bottom line: The Texans will have to adapt their offensive strategies until Mixon returns.

• Without him, they face challenges in maintaining offensive balance, which could hinder their growth as they strive to improve their competitive standing in the league.