Hot off the press- Arian Foster is Houston’s new diamond darling. The fan-favorite running back signed a monstrous $43.5 million contract. By the numbers, this deal is sweet. Arian Foster is 25 years old. In 2010 he led the league in rushing with 1,616 yards. Despite these numbers, he made only $525,000 last year (the Texans’ best season yet). His deal is for 5 years. He will earn $18.5 million in base salary in 2012 which includes a $12.5 million signing bonus. Of the $43.5 million, $20 million is guaranteed.
This deal means several things for the Texans. First, it is a fair certainty that Arian will continue to turn out significant numbers each game. Second, the Texans now have less money in the pot to negotiate with other players such as Mario Williams and other play makers. Third, Arian Foster is one happy guy.
Displaying tears of joy at a press conference, Arian reflected on his lowest point in his life which was watching his mother struggle to make ends meet for his family. He told a story about how he promised several of his family members that he would buy them things when he “made it” including a fruit basket for his mother. Immediately after the press conference, Foster ordered a basket for his mother – delivering on his promise.
The theory of perseverance is something that Texans fans have been buzzing about since the big announcement. Foster slowly chipped away at the goal and achieved it in a big way. It is something that makes him even more likeable, if that is even possible. However, for Houston fans that have experienced the highest of highs, to only be overshadowed by the lowest of lows, the question remains: will Foster earn his keep?
Nothing in Houston sports is guaranteed. It never has been. Take the Oilers, Astros, and Rockets as examples. Each Houstonian – fan or not- can recall the pit and the peak of times for each of the teams. Sadly, it is something that Houstonians have come to accept. So while the news that Foster will be back sent thrills up the spines of sports fans like this writer, the looming questions still exist – will he stay healthy? Will he put up the same or better numbers? Who will the Texans lose because of this deal?
Setting all questions aside, however, this deal is a big one for Foster whose quiet dedication has paid off- and deservedly so. Further, it guarantees fans that with a healthy offensive line and starting QB, plus Foster running the ball with his new $43.5 million shoes, the team will be fast, furious, and fierce.
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