Ray Rice still unsigned, though Houston Texans in need of running back

The Houston Texans are in a difficult situation with running back Arian Foster expected to miss at least half the season because of a groin injury, but they’re not desperate enough to sign Ray Rice. Maybe no one is.

Foster, who is expected to undergo surgery Friday, has been one of the most productive backs in the NFL since 2010. With Foster out and Andre Johnson now on the Indianapolis Colts, the Texans aren’t likely to find someone to replace that production through free agency.

About the only big-time playmaker who might be able to step into that role is Rice, though he hasn’t played a snap since 2013.

“I understand why maybe a few teams or teams shy away from me,” Rice said in an interview with ESPN. “I understand that because it’s a privilege. It truly is a privilege to play in the NFL. It’s a privilege to play professional sports.”

“I always preach one or two bad decisions, and your dream could become a nightmare. Well, I had to eat my own words. I truly lived a nightmare. There is no set in stone whether you’re going to get a second chance or not. I have to set my hope and faith and everything else that I’m doing in my life, I’m just really hopeful for a second chance.”

At 28, he might still be able to carry the load, but Rice is well aware his career might be over because of a video showing him knocking out his then-fiancee, Janay Palmer, in an Atlantic City casino elevator.

The Ravens cut the three-time Pro Bowl running back and Super Bowl champion immediately after viewing a video and despite his reinstatement to the league last November he remains unsigned.

“We do live in a society where public opinion matters, and I totally respect that,” Rice said. “Domestic violence is real. It happens every 12 seconds as we speak. ... I think that that issue alone with me in my situation, having the video -- that puts a lot in perspective. That vivid memory, obviously, that was the worst decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

In six NFL seasons, Rice became a fan favorite as he rushed for more than 1,000 yards four times and recorded 42 touchdowns including the playoffs. After his attack was seen by the public, some 7,000 people returned his jersey, which could be the last he wears, to the Ravens.

Follow Matt Wilhalme on Twitter @mattwilhalme