Texans have a tough decision to make with Lamar Miller

Lamar Miller is not having a good season for the Houston Texans. This is in part due to the absence of Deshaun Watson. However it must be stated that he was not all that effective with Watson, just more effective than he is currently. With a potential out after the season will the Texans move on?

Miller broke the 1,000 yard mark for the second time in his career last season in Houston. Barring an explosive performance it does not appear that will be the case this season. Miller is averaging a career-worst 3.6 yards per carry this season. With Miller’s second-highest rush attempts total in his career (220) it has not provided the results desired. The 796 yards on the ground this season is not what the Texans envisioned with handing Miller the ball this often.

The emergence of rookie running back D’Onta Foreman may make the Texans decision that much easier. Foreman rushed 78 times for 328 yards and two touchdowns before suffering a season-ending injury. Foreman has shown that he is the future of the Texans backfield but with his injury it may cause some hesitancy to move on from Miller.

It is also worth noting the Foreman is not the pass catcher that Miller is. Foreman could in theory become the lead back while having Miller take the role of the complimentary back. However with the large amount money owed to Miller over the next two seasons it may be best to move on. Miller is currently the seventh-highest paid running back in the league. Unless he is willing to take a pay cut or renegotiate, it is hard to justify keeping him on the roster. Especially if Foreman takes over as the lead back.

Houston will be looking to contend in the division next season while improving as a unit. Embracing the Foreman and moving on from Miller may be the best option. Especially if Bill O’Brien is not back on the sidelines next season.