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Houston Texans: Evaluating the 2017 offense by position with outlook

By T.A. Mock

NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 03: Head coach Bill O'Brien of the Houston Texans reacts against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 03: Head coach Bill O'Brien of the Houston Texans reacts against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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Running backs

Many factors led to an extremely up and down season from the stable of running backs. The bright moments shone extremely bright and the dull moment sunk extremely deep. All this leading to one of the most inconsistent seasons we’ve seen from this group in recent years.

Running Backs for 2018: Lamar Miller, D’Onta Foreman, Tyler Ervin, Jay Prosch, Troymaine Pope (Future/Reserves contract)

Free Agents: Alfred Blue, Andre Ellington, Jordan Todman

Coming into the 2017 season, this looked like the deepest squad the team had ever had at running back. With Miller returning off of a solid first campaign with the team, adding Foreman and retaining Ervin and Blue the Houston Texans looked set to dominate defenses with the run.

However, only one of these running backs eclipsed the 100-yard mark in a game this season. I’ll give you a second to guess who… You’re right, it’s who we all thought: Alfred Blue. This stat alone surmises this disappointment and up and down nature of this season from the stable of running backs. The biggest upside this season was due to a depleted receiving corps. It allowed Miller to return to form in the passing game averaging over 9 yards a reception and 3 touchdowns.

Having Deshaun Watson behind center completely changed the dynamics for the running backs. His ability to sling the ball all over the field in addition to being a running threat opened up lanes for Miller and Foreman. I fully expect the running game to bounce back in 2018 with Miller returning to 1000+ yards and fully healthy season from Foreman to complement Miller.

Bye Bye, Blue

Don’t expect much, or anything at all, in regard to this position this off season. The team should let Blue walk, he has been a serviceable back up, but Foreman essentially fills the same role and is more athletically gifted. Miller has the talent and capabilities of a work horse. Watson’s return and (hopefully) an improved offensive line will be a boon to Miller and Foreman.  There is hope for this unit.

2018 Outlook Grade: B     Foreman’s health and Miller’s down year place a small question mark, but overall this group should be solid.

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