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Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon has had a mostly successful career in his six years with the franchise, but he's set to turn 27 years old before his seventh season, and his play looks to be on the decline.
However, the organization didn't bring in much competition for touches after losing Samaje Perine in free agency, so Mixon appears to be the lead back in Joe Burrow's offense once again. Mixon had off-the-field trouble this offseason and Cincinnati reportedly asked him to take a pay cut, so this situation could go several ways.
How did Mixon play in 2022 and will he get a contract extension this offseason? Let's dive in.
Joe Mixon 2022 Season Review
After a stellar season with more than 1,500 yards from scrimmage and 17 total touchdowns in 2021, Mixon regressed last season. He rushed 210 times for 814 yards (3.9 YPC) and seven touchdowns, adding 60 receptions for 441 yards and two touchdowns. His final stats don't look all that bad, but his efficiency regressed, and five of his nine touchdowns games in one game against the Panthers.
Mixon allegedly pointed a gun at a woman in downtown Cincinnati in February and criminal charges were filed in April. Needless to say, off-the-field misconduct following a down performance on the field is far from ideal.
That said, the Bengals have more than one reason to ask him to take a reduced salary to stay with the team.
Will Joe Mixon's Contract Be Extended?
The restructure/cut deadline for Cincinnati Bengals running back Mixon is the Tuesday before the regular season opener when veteran contracts lock in for the year. However, the Bengals certainly don't want to wait that long. Whether on cutdown day on Aug. 29 or before training camp starts on July 26, all sides would prefer a resolution sooner than later.
Mixon is going to need to agree on a pay cut to stay with the team, but it's unclear how much he'll have to lose to stick around. The 26-year-old carries a $12.8 million salary cap hit this year. If Mixon is cut, the Bengals would most likely be using Trayveon Williams and fifth-round rookie Chase Brown as their primary backs in 2023. They also have Chris Evans in the fold.
Mixon won't receive a substantial extension, but he could see a year added onto his deal at a reduced cost and with a potential out on his contract.
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