Cincinnati Bengals Respond to One False Rumor Spreading on Social Media
The Cincinnati Bengals face some difficult decisions this offseason. While Joe Burrow is the franchise quarterback, the offense around him could look different. Ja’Marr Chase, of course, will be Burrow’s go-to wide receiver for the foreseeable future (hopefully), but other offensive skill players could be on the move. Tee Higgins, for example, is a free agent who is likely to be in great demand (though Cincinnati might yet franchise him).
Joe Mixon, another star offensive player, is said to be leaving next season. The former Pro Bowler has one year left on his two-year, $11.5 million contract, which he signed before the 2023 season.
Why Would the Cincinnati Bengals Cut Joe Mixon?
There are several reasons why the Bengals may decide to break ways with Mixon this offseason. If they released him, they would save more than $6 million on the salary cap. His cap hit for 2024 is presently set at $8.8 million. If he were released, only $2.7 million would go toward the 2024 salary cap.
Mixon has also had some less than stellar interactions with the law that have rubbed many fans the wrong way. While no charges have ever been filed, and he has not been punished by the NFL, the incident last summer in which a nine-year-old boy was shot in the foot while playing on Mixon’s property remains a highly questionable situation (Mixon was not the one who reportedly pulled the trigger).
Joe Mixon Refutes the Rumor that He Will Be Released by the Cincinnati Bengals
According to one NFL Rumors account, the Bengals will likely dismiss Mixon this offseason. The Bengals running back quote tweeted the post with this message:
Mixon is coming off a season in which he rushed 1,034 yards and scored nine touchdowns. He also had 52 receptions for 376 yards and three other scores.
While removing him may save the organization $6 million this year, it is important to note that a $8.8 million cap charge for a running back is well below market value. There is also no assurance that whoever takes over as lead running back will be able to replicate Mixon’s output in both the rushing and receiving components of the offense.
Mixon clearly does not believe he would be released, raising the question of whether the story is true or if the seven-year veteran is unaware of what the team is preparing.
