REPORT: Cincinnati Bengals Plan to Release Pro Bowler Ahead of the 2024 Season.
According to NBC’s Matthew Berry, the Cincinnati Bengals plan to cut ways with veteran running back Joe Mixon. Cincinnati would save an additional $6.1 million in cap space for this year’s free agency period, which begins after the March 11th deadline. According to Spotrac’s salary cap tracker, Mixon’s release will leave the Bengals with more than $56 million to spend.
Joe Mixon produced his fourth 1,000-yard season in 2023 for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincinnati battled injuries on both sides of the ball and failed to create a rhythm early in the season. Star quarterback Joe Burrow was ruled out for the season following Week 11, forcing the offense to rely heavily on the run game.
Mixon took advantage of the opportunity and improved his performance during the last six games. Running for 92.8 scrimmage yards per game and playing a significant role as a receiver out of the backfield. Mixon also scored seven touchdowns during that time and received a Pro Bowl selection as a reserve. This is his fourth season rushing for 1,000 yards.
Mixon will likely have interest from multiple teams in free agency if he is released.
Mixon, who will be 28 years old next season, will terminate his Bengals career and attempt to sign with another team if he is released. After another 1,000-yard season, he is certain to get interest from numerous teams in free agency. However, there are numerous running backs headed in the same path, including Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, Josh Jacobs, and others.
If the reports of Mixon’s release are verified, Cincinnati would likely turn to second-year running back Chase Brown. Who showed promise as Mixon’s backup during the conclusion of the season and received more playing time as the year progressed.