When Arian Foster returns to game action, don't expect a workhorse performance from the Pro Bowl running back.
"Obviously I don't think Arian is going to be a 30-carry guy opening night without camp," head coach Gary Kubiak said on Friday afternoon.
Foster missed all of training camp with calf and back injuries, but has practiced for the last couple weeks with his teammates. He came off the physically unable to perform list on August 21. Since rejoining his offensive mates, Foster's put in some quality time. Kubiak is also happy the Texans begin their 2013 campaign on Monday Night Football at San Diego, instead of a day earlier.
"He got good work last week," Kubiak said. "This is going to be a good week for him because we've actually got two extra days that can get us a couple extra padded practices before we start our week. Us opening on Monday should be beneficial to Arian."
Foster didn't play in any of the four preseason contests. In his absence, Ben Tate started and shined, and backups Cierre Wood and Deji Karim fought for the third spot on the roster.
"We know Ben is ready to go," Kubiak said. "He's had a great preseason and between the two of them, we've got to do it well. We obviously have to sit there and have a plan for Arian, being his first time out."
The Texans had a walk-through practice on Friday, and will be off until another practice on Monday afternoon.
