The Cincinnati Bengals have a tough decision to make on running back Joe Mixon this offseason.
So far, Cincinnati has chosen to wait it out and see what happens when it comes to the position, even after losing Samaje Perine. But it’s no secret Mixon’s gaudy salary ($12.6 million) and on-field struggles or absences are rough points.
Case in point, Warren Sharp just illustrated that despite facing some of the fewest defenders in the box to stop the run than all other backs, Mixon’s numbers were worse than most in those scenarios.
A quick look at the note that caused debate on Twitter:
the Bengals' high rates of 3+ WR sets forced defenses to play light boxes
Mixon led the NFL in % of runs vs light boxes
but of 41 RBs, he only ranked:
36th in YPC
39th in yards after contact
34th in explosive run rateshould the Bengals draft a RB?https://t.co/K3uDBpuyel
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) April 7, 2023
On one hand, if the line in front of Mixon isn’t very good, it doesn’t much matter if the box is light or heavy. On the other, the numbers stink and, in tandem with the coaches not trusting him to pass block, makes the situation worse.
Cincinnati will undoubtedly ask Mixon to take a pay cut or restructure while also seeking a back who can perform better in these situations while representing a three-down threat and this is just one of the handful of reasons as to why.
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