Mixon Injured, but Not From Hip-Drop Tackle
Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon sustained an injury against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, but it wasn't from the controversial hip-drop tackle that sent the internet into a frenzy.
Mixon left the game in the first quarter after a seemingly innocuous run. The tackle in question, delivered by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton, garnered significant attention for its violent nature. However, the injury itself occurred earlier in the game, while Mixon was attempting to make a cut.
The Bengals have confirmed that Mixon suffered a right ankle injury, specifically a high ankle sprain. This injury is known for being particularly painful and requiring a significant recovery period. While the exact severity of the sprain is still unknown, the Bengals are expecting him to miss several weeks, potentially impacting their upcoming playoff run.
The tackle, meanwhile, is being reviewed by the NFL. The league is examining whether it constitutes a "horse-collar" tackle, which carries a potential fine for Bolton. This situation highlights the ongoing debate regarding player safety and the use of dangerous tackles in the NFL.
The controversy surrounding the tackle doesn't detract from Mixon's injury, which is a major setback for the Bengals. The team relies heavily on his versatility and playmaking ability, particularly in the absence of their starting quarterback, Joe Burrow.
Mixon's absence puts significant pressure on the Bengals' backfield, which already lacks depth. The team will need to rely on Samaje Perine and the newly acquired Chris Evans to step up and fill the void.
The Bengals' playoff hopes are hanging in the balance as they await updates on Mixon's recovery. While his return timeline remains unclear, one thing is certain: the team will need to adjust its strategy and find new ways to generate offensive production without their star running back.
