The Houston Texans are turning to Cam Akers come Sunday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Running back Joe Mixon missed practice for the third consecutive day Friday and is listed as doubtful on the latest injury report. He’s still recovering from an ankle injury after being illegally tackled in Sunday’s win over the Chicago Bears.
The Texans plan to send the footage of the hip-drop tackle to the league office for further review. Mixon, who finished with 50 yards of offense, tweeted his frustrations following the game.
Houston #Texans Friday Injury Report & Game Status Report for Week 3 at the Minnesota Vikings: pic.twitter.com/HhzVgBu97q
— Houston Texans PR (@TexansPR) September 20, 2024
Acquired this offseason from Cincinnati, Mixon is the hopeful long-term running back next to C.J. Stroud after signing a three-year, $27 million extension this offseason. He rushed for 159 yards on 30 carries in Week 1’s win over Colts.
Through two games, Mixon has 228 total yards and a touchdown on 39 carries and six catches.
Fellow running back Dameon Pierce is also out this week because of a hamstring injury. If Mixon does play, Akers likely takes over as the top back on the road.
Last week following Mixon’s exit, Akers became the focal runner. He finished with 32 yards on seven carries, but also had a fumble inside the red zone.
Alibiet an underwhelming Texans’ debut, Akers impressed in the preseason. He led the team in rushing and yards per attempt during August and scored a pair of touchdowns.
Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik mentioned how Akers’ knowledge of his offense comes from his time in Los Angeles and Minnesota.
“He’s really good at reading that, we call it riding the wave, finding the right hole to hit,” Slowik said Thursday. “He always plays under control. When he sees it, he hits it. He finishes physical. And he has really good contact balance and I’d say those are the things that jump out with Cam.”
Both centers Juice Scruggs (groin) and Jarrett Patterson (calf) are listed as questionable. Should neither be clear, Houston likely would elevate Scott Quessenberry from the practice squad.
The Texans are trying to reach 3-0 for the first time since 2012. Kickoff is set for noon CT.