Texans star running back Joe Mixon takes major step toward return

Joe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans reacts after a first down against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.C.J. Stroud was forced to carry the Houston Texans through the air in recent weeks as the team relied on its third and fourth-string running backs. Stroud should benefit from a more balanced offense in Week 6.

Both starting running back Joe Mixon and backup Dameon Pierce both practiced Thursday at NRG Stadium ahead of Houston’s Week 6 tilt at the New England Patriots. The presence of both running backs marks a dose of good news on the injury front for the Texans after Nico Collins’ disappointing move to Injured Reserve (which will…