Reports surfaced back in January that Texans running back Arian Foster would be released this offseason, and the speculation of his future in Houston is heavily in doubt, as he is viewed as the top NFL candidate to be released this offseason, according to NFL reporter Gregg Rosenthal.

Foster missed the beginning of the 2015 season following groin surgery, and ended the year on injured reserve with a torn Achilles tendon. When healthy Foster is considered one of the best backs in the league, as he has rushed over 1,000 yards in four out of his seven seasons in the NFL. The problem is that he has only completed two full 16 game seasons in his career, and is scheduled to be a $8.925 million cap hit in 2016.

The Texans could look to move on from Foster, and some expect them to target a running back in the 2016 NFL Draft. ESPN's Mel Kiper has projected the Texans to select Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott with the 22nd pick in the draft, and could made an immediate impact replacing Foster in Houston.

Elliott shares many qualities with Foster as they are both downhill runners, but have the ability to shake defenders in the open field. While the Texans may look to target a running back in the draft, owner Bob McNair has already made is known that the franchise is looking for a quarterback in the draft.

Houston won the AFC South division title with a 9-7 record, but both their front office and head coach Bill O'Brien know there are many improvements they need to make this offseason. The Texans could still look to restructure Foster's deal this offseason, but Foster will likely want to earn as much as he can, as he has already said that he is entering the last three to four years of his NFL career.