A bigger workload lured Lamar Miller here.
Lamar Miller bolted away from the Texans’ defense during a breakaway touchdown run last October, exhibiting a flash of acceleration and decisive running that created a lasting impression on his future employer.
Miller piling up 175 rushing yards on 14 carries with an 85-yard touchdown and three catches for 61 yards and a 54-yard score in a 44-26 victory for Miami was a precursor to him joining the Texans on a four-year, $26 million contract.
“I think it was one of the best games of my career,” Miller, 24, said. “I’m looking forward to having big games like that with this organization.”
It was a snapshot of what Miller can do with a heavier workload. Miller had grown weary of being under-utilized in the Dolphins’ offense. Miller averaged 12 carries and three catches a game for a total of 15 touches per game last season and 14 carries, two catches and 16 touches a game two years ago.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity,” said Miller, who rushed for 872 yards and eight touchdowns last season with 47 catches for 397 yards and two touchdowns. “I’ve been following Houston for a while now. I know in this offense they get their running backs involved. I just wanted to be a part of that. I feel like with my skill set, I can help this offense.”
As the replacement for four-time Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, Miller is expected to have a larger role as a centerpiece of a reshaped offense led by new quarterback Brock Osweiler and Pro Bowl wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
The Texans know how explosive Miller can be.
“When I saw Lamar a little while ago, I didn’t immediately recognize him because I’m so used to looking at his back,” Texans owner Bob McNair said. “That’s all I saw in Miami.”
Miller laughed at McNair’s quip.
“It’s a blessing, just to hear from the owner,” Miller said. “I’m looking forward to making more plays like that for this organization and just try to help this team win”
The 5-10, 225-pound Miller is a former University of Miami standout who has rushed for 2,930 yards and 19 touchdowns with 117 receptions for 887 yards and three scores in four NFL seasons.
“As it relates to Lamar, the one thing you can’t coach is speed,” Texans general manager Rick Smith said. “This guy, he’s a complete running back. I think he has a skill set that will allow our creative coaches to utilize him in a way that hopefully is a threat to defenses.”