The Houston Texans may consider releasing Arian Foster this offseason after the running back dealt with injuries this past season. The Texans may bring in some competition for Brian Hoyer this offseason and Robert Griffin could be a potential option if he is released by the Redskins.
Foster started off the season injured after suffering an injury over the summer and he ended up on the shelf after just four games played in 2015. According to the Houston Chronicle, Aaron Wilson reports that "multiple sources" have said that Foster could be released this offseason. Foster is coming into the final year of his contract and will make over $6 million, but his salary is non-guaranteed.
Foster suffered a groin injury and an Achilles injury last season and with the running back turning 30 by the start of next season, his time in Houston could be done. Foster has had injury issues in the past and now that he is getting to the age when most running backs break down, he could be on his way out. There is a chance that the Texans could try and work out a pay cut with Foster on the final year of his contract, but right now the sources are saying that a release is more likely.
Foster went for 163 yards last season on 63 carries over four games and Alfred Blue stepped up in his absence, leading the team with nearly 700 rushing yards. Foster has not played a full season schedule since back in 2012 and over the last three seasons combined he has missed over 20 games. Foster had 1246 yards in 2014 while playing in 13 games and he previously went over 1200 yards in three straight seasons from 2010-12 while missing just three games.
Foster is one of the best backs in the NFL when healthy, but at his age and with his injury history, it's unlikely that he will be an every down back moving forward. While that may be tough for Foster to deal with, it actually could open up some very good situations for him to end up in, as most teams now use at least two running backs (or three!) in a rotation.
The Oakland Raiders could be a fit, according to Chris Murray at Bleacher Report, as the team has a solid starter in Latavius Murray, but they ranked near the bottom of the league in total rushing yards and could use a solid backup. The New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, Chicago bears and New York Giants also could be potential landing spots if Foster is released.
According to Adam Schefter at ESPN, JJ Watt had surgery on his groin after the playoffs and should be ready for the offseason program. The Texans also could look at bringing in a QB to compete with Brian Hoyer and someone like RG3 could be an option if he is released by the Redskins.
