Seahawks Pass on Joe Mixon After Physical, Sign Robert Henry Jr.

Key points

• ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Seahawks decided against signing Joe Mixon following a medical evaluation.
• Mixon, 30, had previously told former Bengals teammates his career was over due to foot complications.
• The Seahawks signed Robert Henry Jr. from the Washington Commanders' practice squad to replace Jadarian Price on the roster.
• Zach Charbonnet is currently on a 21-day practice window as he recovers from an Achilles injury.
• Emanuel Wilson and George Holani are expected to lead the backfield while Mixon's status remains uncertain.

Background

Seattle's backfield depth has been a concern since the 2026 season began, particularly after the loss of Kenneth Walker III and injuries to Zach Charbonnet and rookie Jadarian Price. The team previously relied on practice squad players and free agents like Justin Jones to maintain depth. Joe Mixon, who missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury and was released by the Houston Texans in March, had been seeking a return to the NFL after a strong 2024 campaign.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and ESPN agree that the Seahawks declined to sign Joe Mixon after a physical, marking a significant setback for the veteran running back's career revival. While NBC Sports notes that Mixon's path to playing time was already crowded due to Charbonnet's return window and the presence of Emanuel Wilson, the secondary source from ESPN was inaccessible, preventing a broader comparison of media reactions. The consensus, however, is that the Seahawks prioritized other options, including signing Robert Henry Jr., over pursuing Mixon.

Why it matters

The decision to pass on Mixon signals that the Seahawks are not willing to take a risk on a player with unresolved health issues, despite his veteran experience. It also highlights the team's reliance on younger players and practice squad additions to manage backfield depth. For fantasy football managers, this confirms that Mixon is unlikely to have an immediate impact, while the signing of Henry Jr. provides a potential long-term option if Charbonnet's recovery is delayed.

What to watch

The Seahawks will monitor Zach Charbonnet's progress through his 21-day practice window, with a potential activation in one to two weeks. Robert Henry Jr. will compete for a roster spot, while Emanuel Wilson and George Holani are expected to lead the backfield in the short term. Joe Mixon will remain a free agent, with his chances of signing elsewhere diminished by the Seahawks' rejection.