Joe Mixon's injury situation was one of the most fascinating situations to watch last season. The NFL running back was coming off an incredibly successful 2024 campaign that saw him return to form as one of the best at his position. However, a mysterious injury kept him out for the entire season. Neither the Houston Texans nor Mixon gave any information about what his injury was.

Now, we might have some clarity about what injury Mixon has. Mixon was set to make his NFL comeback after working out with the Seattle Seahawks in Week 4. However, the Seahawks reneged on the deal after the running back's physical. Ian Rapoport reported on the deal that fell through and the injury that Mixon has… as well as its severity.

“Joe Mixon, the free agent running back, one of the biggest-named free agent running backs, visited yesterday, and the Seahawks did not pass him on the physical,” Rapoport said. “There were reports that they were gonna sign him due to a degenerative foot issue that may never allow Joe Mixon to play again. The Seahawks elected not to sign him.”

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While the foot injury was something known to most fans, the fact that it was a degenerative foot issue is news to many people. Degenerative issues are, more often than not, a career-ending problem for professional athletes. Players like Kawhi Leonard, for example, who is dealing with a degenerative lower-body injury of his own, require special management to ensure his health. In the NFL, a degenerative foot issue is more likely to be a troublesome issue for teams.

Mixon finished with 1,039 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns in 2024, helping lead the Texans to the AFC Divisional Round. He also showed his prowess as a pass-catcher, adding 36 receptions and 309 receiving yards. The Seahawks signed the NFL running back after one of their RBs, Jadarian Price, landed on the IR. Given that they're looking for a healthy replacement, it makes sense why the team backed out of signing Mixon.