Aging running backs Marshawn Lynch and Arian Foster could join the free agent class this offseason if they are released by the Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans.
Both players dealt with injuries last year and with each set to be 30 by the time this NFL season begins, there is a chance that the running backs could be released this winter. Lynch is coming off of his worst season with the Seahawks since coming to Seattle and his high cap hit for 2016 could lead to him getting cut. The Seattle Times reports that Lynch is considering retirement this offseason, but no decision has been made about his future yet.
Foster is coming off of another injury-plagued season and recent reports have the Houston Texans considering releasing him this offseason. According to the Houston Chronicle, "multiple sources" report that Foster "will be released this offseason" after dealing with groin and Achilles injuries. Foster has a contract at $6.5 million for next season that is not guaranteed and that could make it easier to cut ties with the running back.
Foster has been one of the best backs in the league when healthy, but he has not played a full season for the Texans since 2012. Foster only appeared in four games last season and rushed for 163 yards, averaging just 2.6 yards per carry. Foster will be 30 by the time next season starts and with Alfred Blue playing well in his place last season, the Texans could give him the chance to start. Bill O'Brien told the Houston Chronicle that Foster is "working hard to get back," but there is a good chance he could be cut this offseason since he has a near $9 million cap hit for 2016.
Lynch is in a similar spot and if he doesn't end up retiring or taking a pay cut, it's likely he will not be with the Seahawks next season. Lynch will count for over $11 million on the cap next season and that number could be too high for the Seahawks to deal with. John Clayton said to ESPN 710 Seattle that there is "no way" Lynch will be back on his current salary and that could mean a new deal or a cut this offseason.
Lynch only played in seven games last season while dealing with hamstring and abdominal injuries and that gave Thomas Rawls the chance to step up. Rawls played very well and with his salary at less than $1 million for next season, it could be a very easy decision for the Seahawks to make. The Cowboys are going to be on the lookout for some RB depth and could consider Foster or Lynch if they are released. The Raiders want an upgrade over Roy Helu behind Latavius Murray, while the Dolphins may need to replace Lamar Miller if he leaves in free agency.