In a move that has sent ripples through the NFL landscape, the Cincinnati Bengals have decided to part ways with their longtime running back Joe Mixon. The decision, as reported by a source to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, coincides with the Bengals securing the services of former Indianapolis Colts running back Zack Moss on a two-year contract worth $8 million. This strategic shift in the backfield marks the end of an era for Mixon in Cincinnati and ushers in a new chapter with Moss at the helm.
Joe Mixon, a second-round draft pick from Oklahoma in 2017, has been a cornerstone of the Bengals’ offense for the past seven seasons. His contributions have been significant, with four 1,000-yard rushing seasons and a Pro Bowl appearance in 2021. Mixon’s tenure with the Bengals also saw him starting in 88 of his 97 appearances and throwing a touchdown pass in the Super Bowl LVI loss. However, in 2023, despite rushing for 1,034 yards and 9 touchdowns, the Bengals have opted for a change.
Zack Moss, on the other hand, is coming off a breakout season with the Colts. After a career-best 165-yard effort against the Tennessee Titans and finishing the season with 794 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns, Moss has shown he’s more than capable of stepping into a starting role. His versatility as a receiver, catching 27 passes for 192 yards and 2 touchdowns, adds another dimension to the Bengals’ offense.
The financial aspect of this move cannot be overlooked. The Bengals stand to save $6.1 million in cap space by releasing Mixon, which more than covers the first-year salary of Moss. This cap space is crucial for the Bengals as they continue to build a competitive team around star quarterback Joe Burrow.
Cincinnati’s running game has been a point of concern, ranking 27th in the NFL in running back carries that went for 12 or more yards before Week 18 last season. The addition of Moss is expected to inject the much-needed explosiveness that the Bengals’ ground attack has been missing.
The Bengals have also been preparing for this transition, having drafted Chase Brown in the fifth round last season. Brown’s dynamic playmaking abilities were on display with a 70-yard touchdown on a screen pass, showcasing the speed and agility that the Bengals are looking to incorporate into their running game.
Joe Mixon’s release is not just a business decision but also a reflection of the team’s direction and the evolving nature of the NFL. While Mixon has been a durable and physical runner, the Bengals are seeking a more elusive and explosive backfield to complement their pass-heavy offense.
As Mixon joins the free agency pool, his legacy with the Bengals remains intact. He ranks third in franchise history in rushing yards and sixth in total touchdowns. His performance on the field and his ability to stay clear of off-field issues after joining the Bengals have made him a respected figure in the organization.
Zack Moss now has the opportunity to lead the Bengals’ rushing efforts and prove that he can be the catalyst for a rejuvenated ground game. With the support of the coaching staff and the talent surrounding him, Moss is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming seasons.
The Bengals’ decision to release Joe Mixon and sign Zack Moss is a bold statement of intent. It’s a move that reflects the team’s commitment to evolving and improving, all while managing the financial realities of the league. As the Bengals look ahead, the hope is that this change will bring them one step closer to achieving their ultimate goal – hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.
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