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We now know why Joe Mixon has been missing practice.
According to NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero, Mixon is dealing with migraines, though the Bengals are hopeful he’ll be back soon.
#Bengals RB Joe Mixon — who hasn’t practiced in recent days and wasn’t spotted on the field Wednesday — has been dealing with migraines, source said. Optimism he’ll be back soon, with contract talks ongoing ...
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 27, 2020
Mixon is entering the final year of his rookie contract after rushing for 1,000+ yards in each of the past two seasons. The Bengals are trying to get an extension done with him, but he figures to command a hefty payday, even if the running back position has been devalued in the era of pass-heavy offenses. He has too much value to the Bengals’ offense and will greatly help ease No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow into the offense while taking pressure off the rookie.
With Mixon out, veteran backups Giovani Bernard and Samaje Perine have been getting more work, as has second-year many Trayveon Williams. Former XFL back Jacques Patrick has also been making a positive impression in practice.