ESPN Reports: Joe Mixon's Ankle Injury To Keep Him Out Of Most Preseason Games

David

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Post on Jul 28, 2025

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ESPN Reports: Joe Mixon's Ankle Injury Sidelines Bengals Running Back for Most of Preseason

Cincinnati Bengals fans are bracing for a quiet preseason as ESPN reports that star running back Joe Mixon will miss the majority of exhibition games due to an ankle injury. The news, breaking late Tuesday, casts a shadow over the team's preparations for the upcoming NFL season. While the exact timeline remains unclear, the prognosis suggests a limited on-field presence for Mixon before the regular season kickoff.

This setback is a significant blow to the Bengals' offensive strategy. Mixon, a key component of their rushing attack and a vital receiving threat out of the backfield, is crucial to their success. His absence during preseason games means limited opportunities for the team to refine their offensive playbook and for backup running backs to gain valuable experience in game-like situations.

<h3>The Extent of the Injury and Recovery Timeline</h3>

ESPN's sources indicate that Mixon sustained the ankle injury during training camp. While the specifics haven't been publicly released by the Bengals organization, the severity is apparently enough to warrant significant rest and rehabilitation. The team has yet to officially comment on the injury or the projected recovery timeframe. However, the report suggests Mixon's participation will be minimal, if at all, in the upcoming preseason matchups.

This cautious approach by the Bengals medical staff prioritizes Mixon's long-term health and readiness for the regular season. Rushing him back too quickly could risk a more serious injury, potentially derailing his entire season. The focus is clearly on ensuring he's at peak performance for the games that truly matter.

<h3>Impact on the Bengals' Preseason Strategy</h3>

Mixon's absence will force the Bengals coaching staff to adjust their preseason game plan. Expect to see increased playing time for backup running backs like Samaje Perine and Chris Evans. This presents an opportunity for these players to showcase their abilities and potentially earn a larger role in the offensive scheme during the regular season. However, the lack of Mixon's experience and leadership on the field will undoubtedly be felt.

The Bengals' offensive line will also face a challenge. Without Mixon's presence, the team might opt for a more conservative approach, limiting the risk of injuries to other players. This could impact the development and cohesion of the offensive line, a crucial aspect of a successful running game.

<h3>Looking Ahead: The Regular Season</h3>

While the preseason is crucial for evaluating roster depth and refining strategies, the ultimate goal remains the regular season. The Bengals' priority is getting Mixon healthy and ready for Week 1. The team's success hinges heavily on his performance, and managing his injury effectively is paramount.

The coming weeks will provide more clarity regarding Mixon's recovery. Official statements from the Bengals organization will be crucial in alleviating fans' concerns and providing a more accurate picture of the situation. For now, Bengals fans can only hope for a swift and complete recovery for their star running back. Stay tuned for further updates.

Keywords: Joe Mixon, Cincinnati Bengals, NFL, preseason, injury, ankle injury, running back, Samaje Perine, Chris Evans, training camp, NFL news, football injury, sports news, ESPN

Related Articles: (These would link to other relevant articles on your website)

• [Link to an article about Bengals' training camp performance]
• [Link to an article about the Bengals' upcoming schedule]
• [Link to an article about Samaje Perine's career]

Call to Action (subtle): Keep checking back for more updates on Joe Mixon's recovery and the Bengals' preseason performance!