Arian Foster returned to practice in a limited role on Thursday. It was his first day back on the field with his teammates since suffering a groin injury on Aug. 3 in training camp.
"We are slowly incorporating him back into practice," head coach Bill O'Brien said. "I wouldn't expect him this week but you never know."
Foster underwent surgery last month and has been rehabbing at NRG Stadium. Last week, the four-time Pro Bowl running back said he was "excited" with the progress he had made in rehab.
"As far as being where I'm at at this point, we're ahead of schedule and the doctors are pleased with it and so are the trainers," Foster said on Sept. 10. "Just keep on working."
The (0-1) Texans head to Carolina to face the (1-0) Panthers in Week 2. Kickoff is scheduled for Sunday at noon on CBS KHOU-11 and SportsRadio 610.