In a surprising turn of events, the Cincinnati Bengals have announced their decision to release Joe Mixon and replace him with free agent Zack Moss, who is set to sign a two-year, $8 million deal. This move signals a significant shift in the Bengals’ backfield as they usher in a new era with Moss taking the lead.

Mixon, who has been with the Bengals for seven years since being drafted in 2017, has been a consistent performer, averaging at least 13.4 PPR points per game in six of those seasons. However, the decision to release him was likely driven by financial considerations, as it saved the Bengals $6.1 million against the salary cap in 2024.

Following his release, Mixon is now a free agent and could potentially become a No. 2 Fantasy running back with another team. Meanwhile, the Bengals are set to move forward with a running back tandem of Moss and Chase Brown, with Moss expected to take on the lead role.

Moss, coming off a breakout season with the Colts in 2023, showcased his potential as a workhorse back in the absence of Jonathan Taylor. With 183 carries for 794 yards and five touchdowns, along with 27 catches for 192 yards and two touchdowns, Moss proved his value as a versatile and productive backfield option.

Fantasy managers are advised to consider Moss as a No. 2 running back in all leagues, with his performance last year positioning him as a valuable asset worth drafting as early as Round 6. However, it’s important to note that Moss struggled to excel when given the opportunity to start in Buffalo during the first two years of his career.

Additionally, the Bengals are expected to involve Brown significantly in their offensive strategy. Despite his limited playing time in his rookie year, Brown showed promise with 44 carries for 179 yards and 14 catches for 156 yards and a touchdown on 15 targets. As a result, he is poised to be a sleeper pick as the No. 2 running back in Cincinnati.