The National Football League’s free agency era began on March 11, allowing all teams to legally tamper with players.
Throughout the day, free agents reach agreements with organizations. Players signed their contracts on March 13 at 4 p.m., signaling the commencement of the league year.
On the evening of March 11, the Cincinnati Bengals officially signed former Indianapolis Colts running back Zack Moss.
ESPN’s Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported on X, formerly known as Twitter, that Moss and the Bengals had agreed to a three-year, $8 million contract, including a $4.525 million payoff in year one.
This happened while Bengals star running back Joe Mixon was still with the team. Minutes afterward, Schefter announced Mixon’s release.
Mixon was a one-time pro bowler who rushed for over 1,000 yards four times while with the Bengals.
Ian Rapoport, National Insider for NFL Network, announced on March 12 that the Bengals will trade Mixon to the Houston Texans rather than simply release him. Trade details were unavailable at the time.
However, on March 14, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported the transaction specifics on X.
In exchange for Mixon, the Texans gave the Bengals a 2024 seventh-round pick (224th overall).
Hours later, the Texans extended Mixon’s contract. He got a three-year contract worth $27 million, with $13 million guaranteed. The information was provided by NFL Insider for Bleacher Report Jordan Schultz.
The Texans are a club on the rise, entering their second season under the current management.
The Texans and second-year starting quarterback CJ Stroud will both profit greatly from Mixon’s signing. He brings explosiveness, vision, and veteran leadership to the club. Mixon is a good receiving back, giving the Texans a dual threat that they did not have last season.
In addition, he can help the offense by sharing his observations of opposing defenses that others may ignore.
Furthermore, Mixon can share his winning mentality and previous experiences as a member of a team that made the playoffs twice in the last three years, including a trip to the Super Bowl one year.
Mixon’s release might have a negative impact on the Bengals. With Mixon’s departure, rival teams will have one less menace to worry about.
Other teams will be looking to defend superstar wide receiver Jammar Chase and star wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is now on a franchise tag.
Moss looked terrific behind a stronger offensive line while the Colts’ starting running back, Johnathan Taylor, was sidelined due to contract extension difficulties. Can the Bengals’ offensive line help Moss be more productive?
In a strong American Football Conference, the Texans are projected to return to the playoffs, as are the Bengals, who have a healthy starting quarterback in Joe Burrow and company.
