The future for Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon looks, in a word, bright.
Mixon seems like a surefire extension candidate this summer and he’s likely going to play behind a better line in 2020, which should leave to even bigger numbers.
But over at ESPN, the fantasy experts project only minimal improvements for Mixon statistically in 2020, which plants him outside of the top-10 projected scorers:
“Mixon enters his fourth NFL season as the clear feature back in Cincinnati. The role has allowed Mixon a top-seven finish in touches, top-11 finish in yards and eight-plus touchdowns each of the past two seasons. Despite the heavy usage, a limited role as a pass-catcher has left Mixon with fantasy finishes of 10th and 13th during that span. Mixon is one of the game’s better talents at the position, but the Cincinnati offensive line remains a work in progress and his target share is unlikely to see a significant boost with A.J. Green back, Tee Higgins drafted and Giovani Bernard still in the fold. Consider Mixon a borderline top-10 RB.”
The final projection: 269 carries, 1,148 yards and six touchdowns on a 4.3 average.
It’s not a wholly unfair projection, though it’s an interesting one. Improvements to the line — including Jonah Williams — could mean much better numbers. Last year alone, Mixon had less than two yards before contact per carry. He’s also habitually made Giovani Bernard downright irrelevant in the offense.
Either way, it’s interesting to get an expert’s take on Mixon’s 2020 outlook. Almost regardless of the end numbers, he’ll be a critical piece likely going to work on a new contract.
