The Houston Texans will have many decisions to make in the franchise tag window, the NFL draft, and the 2019 NFL Draft. The Texans will have nearly $78 million in salary cap room, but Jadeveon Clowney is a BIG part in what the Texans can/will do during free agency.
Cecil Shorts put together his list of free agent running backs the Houston Texans should target in the free agency window.
With the Houston Texans offense, you want to have as many weapons as possible - running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers. The Texans have a matchup offense. Take a look at the New England Patriots offense - they do a great job finding matchups that they can exploit. The New Orleans Saints do the same as well with running back Alvin Kamara.
Here is my short list of running backs the Houston Texans should target in free agency:
1. TJ Yeldon - TJ had 171 catches in his time in Jacksonville, and that would make him a great asset to Deshaun Watson inside this offense. We all know that Lamar Miller is not really a pass-catching running back and adding a real threat in the passing game - one that can beat 1-on-1 coverage can be a huge help for the young quarterback.
2. Tevin Coleman - With 800 rushing yards and 9 total touchdowns last season with the Atlanta Falcons, he could catch the ball out of the backfield and be a reliable rusher. He is fast and is a play maker that would help the Texans win.
3. Spencer Ware - Ware was the starting running back going into the 2017 season, but he went down with an injury and some guy named Kareem Hunt took over. In 2016 he rushed for 921 yards with 447 yards receiving. He understands his role, he's a smart player and can run well in between the tackles and outside.
4. Darren Sproles - The ageless wonder is an experienced back that can create matchup problems and make plays even at his age. Remember what he did vs the Texans this year? He’s similar to James White with what he can do when lines up in the slot and backfield. He’s still a viable playmaker and you can get him for an affordable price.
5. Le'Veon Bell was the best back in the league before he sat out. He can catch, run, and is super patient when hitting the holes. There is nothing he can’t do. But, if you sign him, you have to part ways with Lamar Miller.
