Cincinnati Bengals Restructure Joe Mixon’s Contract to Keep Him for Upcoming Season
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move to retain their starting running back, Joe Mixon. The team has agreed to restructure Mixon’s contract for the upcoming season, according to his agent Peter Schaeffer. This decision ensures that Mixon will remain with the Bengals, despite previous uncertainties surrounding his future with the team.
Mixon, a six-year veteran, has spent his entire NFL career with the Bengals. Last season, he played in 14 games and rushed for 814 yards and seven touchdowns. Although these numbers were lower than his Pro Bowl season in 2021, where he recorded a career-high 1,205 rushing yards, Mixon’s contributions to the team remain valuable.
The restructuring of Mixon’s contract was necessary due to his $9.4 million non-guaranteed base salary for this season, which represented a $12.8 million hit against the salary cap. By restructuring the contract, the Bengals have created more flexibility in managing their salary cap space while retaining one of their key offensive players.
The uncertainty surrounding Mixon’s future with the team arose from his decreased production last season and the financial implications of his contract. However, after the Bengals did not select a running back until the fifth round of the draft, it became evident that Mixon’s status with Cincinnati was more secure than previously thought.
Head coach Zac Taylor has consistently expressed his support for Mixon throughout his tenure with the team. Taylor praised Mixon’s abilities and stated that he sees a future for him in Cincinnati. This endorsement from the head coach further solidified Mixon’s position within the team.
Despite legal issues looming over him, Mixon has remained committed to the Bengals. He participated in voluntary and mandatory workouts during the offseason while awaiting the settlement of his legal situation. Mixon is currently facing a misdemeanor aggravated menacing charge, which is set for trial on August 14, coinciding with Cincinnati’s training camp.
The charge against Mixon stems from an incident on January 21, where he allegedly pointed a gun at a woman during a road rage incident and threatened to shoot her. The incident occurred just 24 hours before the Bengals’ divisional round playoff game against the Buffalo Bills. Mixon has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The Bengals’ decision to restructure Mixon’s contract indicates their confidence in his abilities and their commitment to supporting him through his legal troubles. Mixon’s presence on the field has been instrumental to the team’s success, and the Bengals are willing to stand by him as he navigates this challenging situation.
As the upcoming season approaches, Mixon’s focus will undoubtedly be on his performance on the field. With his contract situation resolved, he can now fully concentrate on contributing to the Bengals’ offense and helping the team achieve their goals.
In conclusion, the Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move by restructuring Joe Mixon’s contract to retain him for the upcoming season. Despite uncertainties surrounding his future with the team, Mixon’s abilities and contributions have earned him the support of head coach Zac Taylor. The Bengals’ decision showcases their commitment to Mixon and their belief in his potential. As Mixon faces legal challenges, the team stands by him, emphasizing their dedication to supporting their players both on and off the field. With his contract situation resolved, Mixon can now focus on his performance and help lead the Bengals to success in the upcoming season.