Houston Texans Positional Breakdown: Running Back

Sep 13, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Kenny Hilliard (27) scores a touchdown past Louisiana Monroe Warhawks safety Cordero Smith (10) during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. The Tigers won 31-0. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Kenny Hilliard, 6′ 226 Pounds, 23 Years Old

Stop me if you have heard this one before, a Texans running back who weighs over 220 pounds. What can I say, they know what they like out of their runners and they aren’t afraid to make sure their cupboard is stocked full of it.

Some Background Info;

Kenny Hilliard was a seventh round pick and spent most of his collegiate career as a rotational rusher. While Hilliard did average 5.2 yards per carry and crossed the end zone 28 times in his career (27 were rushes), there are some who don’t think he will fare too well in the NFL, even if they say so anonymously.

"“He has played behind running backs over there with NFL futures, but he just isn’t going to be one of them.” – SEC defensive coach"

The best thing going for Hilliard could actually be something he is knocked for. The must rush attempts he has ever had in a single season was 90 last year. With 302 rushes in four seasons, Hilliard has very little wear on his body, and if he can show some promise may prove to be a guy who can crack a rotation eventually.

What To Expect This Year;

He will most likely have to beat out Chris Polk to make the roster, but I also wouldn’t be shocked if the team kept four running backs on the final-53 given the health problems all these running backs have had in their past. However, keeping four may only happen if Hilliard wows the team and they are worried about him being picked up by another team should they tray and waive him and move him to the practice squad.

The most likely outcome for the LSU back is that he is cut sometime after the fourth preseason game and then picked back up for the Texans practice squad.

Next: The Odd Man Out?