Texans' Foster making 2015 debut vs. Falcons

The Houston Texans are set to enjoy the long-awaited return of their star running back.

Arian Foster will make his regular-season debut Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons.

Foster was initially thought to be facing an eight-week absence after undergoing groin surgery early in training camp, but an impressive recovery has put him in position to return far sooner.

The four-time Pro Bowler will likely have a limited workload against the Falcons before taking on a more substantial role in Houston's next game Thursday night, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Regardless of his snap count Sunday, his return to the field is a significant boost for a Texans team off to a disappointing 1-2 start.

Foster has been Houston's offensive centerpiece for each of the past five seasons, consistently producing as one of the NFL's elite running backs.