Lamar Miller drawn to Texans for chance at featured role

The Houston Texans opened up a new chapter in their history this offseason by replacing their all-time leading rusher, Arian Foster, with former Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller.

The Texans have long been known as a team committed to the run, which is highlighted by Foster's four seasons with 250 carries or more during his seven-year career with the organization.

That philosophy is apparently what drew Miller to the Texans, as the 24-year-old made it clear before free agency that he was looking for a chance to carry a significant portion of the offensive workload.

"I just wanted a new start," Miller said, according to ESPN. "I want to be a featured back. With this organization, I know they get their running backs involved. I just wanted to be a part of it."

Miller was used sparingly in his four years in Miami, with 410 carries over the last two seasons.

One of his most productive games last season, however, was against the Texans, in which he showed off his game-breaking speed by scoring on a 54-yard pass and 85-yard run.

That speed was apparently one of the main reasons the Texans coveted Miller so fiercely during free agency.

"The one thing you can't coach is speed ... and I don't want to just say that that's all he offers and all he brings to the table," general manager Rick Smith said. "This guy, he's a complete running back. ... I just think that he has a skill set that will allow our creative coaches to utilize him in a way that hopefully is a threat to defenses."

The Texans also made a blockbuster move at quarterback, bringing in Brock Osweiler.

However, Osweiler played well with the Denver Broncos last season when given a strong running game, so it's a good bet Miller will see the most action of his career next season.