Arian Foster a risky fantasy pick with back, calf injuries

Arian Foster has been one of the best running backs in football the past three seasons and one of the most productive players in fantasy football during that span. For the third year in a row, he enters the season as a somewhat risky fantasy football pick because of injuries. This time I think the concerns are more serious than usual.

Foster is dealing with back and calf injuries and has not practiced during training camp. He continues to miss timetables given by head coach Gary Kubiak, who has consistently expected the running back to practice. Though the calf issue does not appear to be serious, the back problem is a real concern.

Kubiak told reporters during a news conference on Sunday that Foster will not be at practice on Monday because he needs time after getting injections for his back. Kubiak said the pain from the back has migrated down to Foster’s legs, which is a common issue for those who have nerve problems.

Kubiak’s comments led Houston Chronicle Texans writer John McClain to write that he would be worried about Foster’s status for the season opener.

Foster has been one of the most overworked backs in football the past three years. He had 393 touches in 2010 (327 rushes, 66 receptions); 390 touches in 2011 including playoffs (329 rushes, 61 receptions); and he had an absurd 460 touches in 2012 including playoffs (405 rushes, 55 receptions). There aren’t many players who touched the ball as often as he has the past three years and not experienced a setback. I love his talent, but I have serious concerns about his workload taking its toll.

H/T Rotoworld