This Bengals-Dolphins Trade for Joe Mixon Could Actually Work

The Cincinnati Bengals, despite the quarterback uncertainty that has plagued them in recent years, have a solid offensive foundation thanks to the presence of running back Joe Mixon, as the former Oklahoma star has almost 3,000 total yards of offense over the last two years.

Mixon's time in Ohio might be drawing to a close, however, as he claimed he is willing to hold out in search of a new contract, which could get trade rumors started.

Mixon could be traded to a team like the Miami Dolphins, who could use a running back with more long-term potential than Jordan Howard or Kalen Ballage can offer.

Mixon's impending contract extension will likely prevent the Dolphins from giving up the farm in a potential deal, but a second-round pick would be more than fair for Mixon's services, as the Dolphins own the No. 39 overall pick in the 2020 draft.

Cincinnati could replace Mixon with a star running back in a deep class with pick No. 39 (perhaps Clyde Edwards-Helaire?), while Miami would add someone who has run for over 1,100 yards in back-to-back seasons.

With Joe Burrow expected to arrive in town in about a week, providing him with a do-it-all running back of Mixon's ilk could easily accelerate his development. Unfortunately, Mixon's need for a new contract could force the Bengals to flip him to Miami, where he'll make whomever gets picked No. 5 overall a very happy quarterback.