Former NFL executive Andrew Brandt has lauded the Houston Texans for their trade with the Cincinnati Bengals, acquiring running back Joe Mixon for a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. This strategic move comes after Mixon's impressive performance this season, where he amassed over 1,300 yards and scored 12 touchdowns.

The Bengals are expected to benefit from the transaction as they clear significant cap space, totaling $5.8 million, and pave the way for Chase Brown to step up in his second season. Brown had a strong rookie campaign, contributing almost 1,400 total yards and 11 touchdowns.

The Cincinnati Bengals are actively seeking a new defensive coordinator after parting ways with Lou Anarumo. Safety Daijahn Anthony hinted that a decision regarding Anarumo's successor might already be in place, stating in a TikTok live session, "Yes bro, it's gonna shock a lot of y'all." He expressed excitement about the potential change, indicating it would mark a new journey for the team.

Although the Bengals have yet to officially announce the new hire, Anthony revealed that the decision could have been made earlier on Thursday. His comments come after the team interviewed several candidates for the position earlier this week. The Bengals’ coaching staff is under scrutiny as they aim to improve their defense ahead of the upcoming season.

Khalil Mack, linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, will miss the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals due to a groin injury sustained earlier this month. This marks the first game he has missed since joining the Chargers in 2022.

In Mack's absence, Tuli Tuipulotu and Bud Dupree are expected to step up, as the Chargers' defense has been performing well with 18 sacks in their last three games.