Houston Texans 5 Most Important Players of 2015

Dec 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans running back Arian Foster (23) scores a touchdown during the first quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. RB Arian Foster

It’s amazing how tough Arian Foster is to bring down on the ground, and he proved his value last season by bouncing back from a late-season 2013 injury (and some nagging ailments in 2014 that caused him to miss three games) to put up 1,246 rushing yards. Foster’s terrific 95.8 rushing yards per game were second in the league to only DeMarco Murray, as the former Tennessee star managed to average a robust 4.8 yards per carry with 13 total touchdowns.

O’Brien figures to continue to use Foster heavily despite the addition of capable backup Chris Polk, especially since Foster has proven to be a real asset in the passing game. Regardless of whether it’s Brian Hoyer or Ryan Mallett (I’d prefer the latter) starting at quarterback, both guys would certainly benefit from another 40 or so catches from a player who is dangerous with the ball in his hands.

That last statement isn’t something to be taken lightly, because Foster, who is as tough as they come in between the tackles, was second in the NFL with 2.83 yards after contract per carry (courtesy of PFF) and fifth with 51 missed tackles forced.

The Texans rely on Foster as much as anyone, and both Hoyer and Mallett will certainly be grateful to have both Hopkins and Foster on their side.

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