Arian Foster's return should happen sooner rather than later.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that Foster won't be placed on the IR/designated to return list as initially expected, per two sources informed of the plans.
Foster could be back in a month, per Rapoport.
A torn groin was originally thought to keep the Houston Texans' running back out into November, but after successful surgery he could be back by late September.
It's an optimistic timeline for Foster's return, but has to have Texans coach Bill O'Brien -- not to mention fantasy football owners -- smiling from ear to ear.
Foster's injury scuttled early training camp optimism for the Texans offense. With a game-manager in Brian Hoyer leading the team under center and no standout replacing Foster in the backfield, the Texans chances at a playoff stop hinge in a quick return of their leading rusher.
This isn't much of a surprise but it's still good news that it's official. Foster has been progressing nicely in the later part of camp and the news continued to be positive about his health over the last couple of weeks.