This Bengals-Seahawks Trade for Joe Mixon Would Solidify Seattle's Backfield

Earlier in the week it was reported that Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon was considering holding out if he isn't given a contract extension. The 23-year-old has offered some solid production on an otherwise dysfunctional offense in his first three seasons in the NFL.

Mixon has logged over 1,100 rushing yards, on an impressive 4.5 yards-per-carry no less, in each of the last two seasons. However, with a potential holdout looming, he could become the subject of trade talks before long.

In terms of fits, the Seattle Seahawks come to mind after they were ravaged by injuries to the RB position at the tail end of 2019.

Mixon will pocket $1.2 million in the final year of his rookie deal in 2020. A potential buyer wouldn't necessarily be required to extend him, but it would be a questionable move to give up a valuable asset for just a season's worth of production.

That's what makes the Seahawks an ideal fit. Current No. 1 option Chris Carson is capable of carrying the load of a workhorse, but his fumbling issue is still a major concern. Mixon hasn't coughed up the rock once in the last two seasons (30 games). Further, he's more reliable than Carson as a pass-catcher, and that versatility is invaluable considering how often quarterback Russell Wilson is pressured.

For a running back on a salary as measly as Mixon's, the Bengals shouldn't ask for anything more than a third-round pick. The market for RB's is anything but friendly, so a package as straightforward as this should get a deal done.

Not only would the Seahawks add more stability to their backfield, but this trade would present them the opportunity to finally move on from 2018 first-round pick Rashaad Penny, who's yet to start a game for Seattle.

The Bengals, meanwhile, would bypass a future headache all while adding more capital in a draft they project to do some serious damage in.