The Cincinnati Bengals have already won the AFC North, but they will be without a key offensive figure in Week 18 against the Cleveland Browns. Running back Joe Mixon has tested positive for COVID-19 and is set to be out on Sunday.

Via Adam Schefter of ESPN:

Mixon had a solid game in a Bengals win over the Chiefs in Week 17, rushing 19 times for a total of 86 yards on the ground. Overall, he's been very effective for Cincinnati this season, racking up 1,205 yards and 13 touchdowns. This positive test comes at a good time though for the team since this contest vs. Cleveland doesn't mean a lot.

Aside from Mixon, the Bengals also placed five other players in protocols. Samaje Perine will likely step in as Joe Burrow's number one option in the backfield. Zac Taylor's squad has now won three straight games and put together back-to-back electric offensive performances, scoring 41 points against the Ravens then another 34 versus Kansas City. That's much in part to the unstoppable connection of Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, who are lighting it up in 2021 as Cincy sits at 10-6 right now.

As for Mixon, let's hope he gets healthy quickly and returns to the Bengals ahead of their playoff run.