The Houston Texans are expected to release Arian Foster this offseason after the running back missed most of 2015 with injuries.
According to Aaron Wilson at the Houston Chronicle, "multiple sources" report that the Texans will likely release Foster this offseason after the running back played in just four games while dealing with groin and Achilles injuries. Foster is set to make over $6 million next season in salary and he will count for nearly $9 million in salary cap space for the team.
Foster will be 30 when next season starts and the team has concerns about his ability to stay healthy moving forward. "Well, we'll have to see how healthy he is," Texans owner Bob McNair said, according to the Chronicle. "But until we know that, there's really not much you can think about." Foster played in just four games last season and rushed for 163 yards while also putting up 22 catches for 227 yards. While there is a chance that the team could restructure Foster's deal, his release is more likely at this point.
Alfred Blue stepped in as the main running back for the Texans with Foster out and led the team with nearly 700 rushing yards in 2015. Foster has been one of the most productive running backs in the league during his career when healthy, but he has not played a full season schedule since back in 2012. Foster had 1411 rushing yards that season with 15 touchdowns, but since then he has missed 23 games over the last three years.
Foster had his best season in 2010, putting up 1616 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns to go along with 66 catches for 604 yards, which set career highs in numerous categories. Foster had 1246 yards last season in 13 games and if he is released, he likely would be a solid option for a number of teams on the market. Foster may not be able to be a number one starter with his injury history, but he could split time for a number of different teams.
The Miami Dolphins, Saints, Titans, Ravens, Chargers, Colts, Raiders and Patriots all ranked in the bottom half of the league in total rushing yards and could consider adding Foster. The Raiders have Latavius Murray as the starter, but Foster could be a solid number two behind him. Miami may lose Lamar Miller in free agency and could consider adding Foster, while the Patriots have found success in the past with aging veterans, including Corey Dillon.
