The Houston Texans must again prepare for life without Arian Foster.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday, per a source informed of the situation, that Foster suffered a major groin injury during practice on Monday night that will likely necessitate surgery. Texans head coach Bill O'Brien confirmed the injury Wednesday.
Foster is expected to undergo surgery with Dr. William Meyers, an expert on sports hernias, in Philadelphia on Friday, assuming Foster agrees with the doctor's diagnosis, Rapoport reported, per a source who has spoken to Foster.
The Pro Bowl running back will miss the start of the season, per Rapoport, and is almost certainly is headed to short-term injured reserve. ESPN.com first reported Foster's injury.
Foster, 28, has missed 11 games over the past two seasons due to injuries and has dealt with groin issues in the past. He remains one of the NFL's top all-purpose running backs when on the field, however. He finished with 1,573 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns in just 13 games for Houston in 2014.
The Texans will move forward with a running back group that includes Alfred Blue, Chris Polk and Jonathan Grimes. Free-agent options include Ahmad Bradshaw, Chris Johnson, Ray Rice and Pierre Thomas. The Texans hosted Thomas for a visit on Wednesday, but the two sides were unable to agree on a contract.
UPDATE: Rapoport reports Arian Foster had successful surgery Friday morning. Rapoport adds some are optimistic that his recovery will be quicker than three months.
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