- Dameon Pierce
- #31
- Team HOU
- Pos RB
- Status AActive
-
Pre-Season Outlook
Pierce was thoroughly outplayed in 2023 by Devin Singletary, a player the Texans let walk in free agency to the Giants without even trying to bring him back. To average just 2.9 yards per carry like Pierce did last year is almost unthinkable given how promising his 2022 rookie season was, but what's done is done and now the Texans have traded for Joe Mixon. Mixon is likely locked into a three-down role, so Pierce's best-case scenario is going into the year as Mixon's backup. Pierce will need to hold off rookie sixth-round pick Jawhar Jordan for the chance to even play off the bench.
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Expected to contribute this year
GM Nick Caserio said Tuesday that he expects Pierce to be "a big part" of the Houston offense this upcoming season, Tyler Milner of Sports Radio 610 reports.
Analysis: The 2022 fourth-round pick ran for 939 yards in 13 games his rookie season but then managed just 416 yards in 14 games last year. Pierce nosedived from 4.3 YPC to 2.9, losing his starting job to Devin Singletary in the process. Singletary is with the Giants now, but Pierce nonetheless appear destined for a backup role after the Texans traded for Joe Mixon and gave him an extension. The team then waited until the sixth round of the 2024 NFL draft to select a running back, taking a player…read more
Published: Thu, May 2 at 5:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Joined in backfield by Mixon
Pierce looks slated to work as the backup to Joe Mixon, DJ Bien-Amie of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Pierce will no longer have to compete with Devin Singletary, who won the starting job down the stretch in 2023 before leaving in free agency, but he now faces a stronger obstacle to touches in the form of Mixon, who had 257 carries for 1,034 yards and nine TDs last year and boasts a true three-down skillset. As a rookie in 2022, Pierce burst onto the scene with 939 rushing yards, but he disappointed in Year 2 with just 416 yards on the ground. The 2022 fourth-round pick could bounce back if he…read more
Published: Tue, Mar 12 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Lone back under contract
Pierce finished the 2023 campaign with 145 carries for 416 yards and two touchdowns along with 13 receptions (17 targets) for 101 receiving yards over 14 regular-season games.
Analysis: A promising rookie in 2022, Pierce lost the starting job to Devin Singletary and fell to third on the depth chart by the season's end. Including the two postseason games, Pierce had 19 carries for 34 yards over the Texans' final seven contests. He suffered a midseason ankle injury, but the main reason for his downfall was an inability to adjust to a running scheme installed under the new coaching regime. Pierce enters the offseason as the only running back under contract, but the Texans are…read more
Published: Thu, Feb 1 at 3:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Little involvement in win
Pierce had three carries for zero yards and played six snaps on offense in Saturday's 45-14 wild-card playoff victory over Cleveland.
Analysis: Two of Pierce's three carries came in the fourth quarter when the game was long settled and Davis Mills had replaced C.J. Stroud. The backup running back did not have a kickoff return, which has been his primary contribution the last few weeks. The one kick return Houston had was by Dare Ogunbowale.
Published: Mon, Jan 15 at 7:16am by Rotowire.com
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No snaps on offense
Pierce returned one kickoff for 30 yards and did not play on offense in Saturday's 23-19 win over the Colts in Week 18.
Analysis: A week after he inched back to relevance with nine touches, a healthy Pierce failed to play on offense for the first time this season. He's operated as the backup to Devin Singletary the last several weeks, but Week 18 was a new low for Houston's former lead back. If Pierce is going to make an impact in the playoffs, it may have to be on special teams. He leads Houston with 225 kickoff return yards (32.1 yards per return) and one touchdown.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 10:44am by Rotowire.com
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Still in backup role
Pierce rushed eight times for 16 yards, caught his lone target for five yards and returned one kickoff for 21 yards in Sunday's 26-3 win over the Titans.
Analysis: Pierce's 12 offensive snaps remained firmly behind Devin Singletary's 38, and the latter had 16 carries and three targets. Since he returned from an ankle injury in Week 12, Pierce has had fewer snaps on offense in all six games, and it wasn't close in five of them -- Week 13 against Denver stands out as the last time Pierce's workload was on par with Singletary's. Noah Brown and Robert Woods sustained hip injuries Sunday, which could boost the importance of the Texans' running game in Week 18…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 1 at 5:47am by Rotowire.com
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Scores on special teams
Pierce returned five kickoffs for 174 yards, including a 98-yard touchdown, in Sunday's 36-22 loss to the Browns in Week 16. He added three carries for six yards and caught one of two targets for 10 yards.
Analysis: Pierce provided an early lift by taking a kickoff to the house after Cleveland had jumped out to a 14-0 lead, but Houston's offense was unable to take advantage of the momentum swing. He had just 15 snaps on offense, continuing a downward trend after getting just four in Week 15. Since returning from an ankle injury five weeks ago, Pierce has a combined 85 yards on offense and slipped behind Devin Singletary on the depth chart. While the ankle could have played a role in his diminished…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 26 at 6:14am by Rotowire.com
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Adjusting to new scheme
Pierce had to learn a new scheme this season, which may be a contributing factor to the decrease in production during his second NFL campaign, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce was barely visible in the Week 15 win over the Titans, getting on the field for just four snaps, while Devin Singletary carried the load for the Texans' rushing attack. As a rookie in 2022, Pierce gained 939 yards in 13 games behind a power-gap running scheme. It's a tactic the team felt suited the back from his college days at Florida. The adjustment this season to a zone outside running scheme, in which the back is required to read the defense before deciding on a path, has not been a…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 21 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Disappears from game plan
Pierce rushed the ball once for three yards in Sunday's 19-16 win over the Titans.
Analysis: Pierce appeared to be the Texans' lead back in Week 13 when he tallied 15 carries, four of which came in the red zone. His role has declined substantially in two games since, bottoming out in Sunday's win. The once-lead back was on the field for four snaps Sunday and eight snaps the previous week. Devin Singletary is set to lead the Houston backfield for the rest of the season.
Published: Sun, Dec 17 at 4:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Outplayed by Singletary in loss
Pierce rushed four times for nine yards and caught his only target for minus-2 yards in Sunday's 30-6 loss to the Jets.
Analysis: Pierce was handily outplayed by Devin Singletary, who rushed 13 times for 65 yards and a touchdown. C.J. Stroud has entered concussion protocol after exiting in the fourth quarter, and if the rookie quarterback is unavailable in Week 15 against the Titans, both Pierce and Singletary could see additional volume with Houston likely to lean more on the running game if backup Davis Mills gets the start under center.
Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Retakes lead-back role
Pierce rushed the ball 15 times for 41 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Broncos.
Analysis: Pierce returned from an ankle injury in Week 12 to a reduced workload, but he regained the primary share of opportunities out of the backfield one game later. He saw 15 touches to Devin Singletary's nine and was also given work at the goal line. While Pierce still wasn't impressive in a positive matchup, it appears that volume will be on his side heading into a tough Week 14 contest against the Jets.
Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 5:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles continue in return
Pierce (ankle) rushed five times for 14 yards and caught his only target for four yards in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Jaguars.
Analysis: In his return from a three-week absence, Pierce finished with one fewer carry and four fewer rushing yards than Devin Singletary. While Singletary was hardly better on the ground, he contributed 54 receiving yards, which is almost double Pierce's season-high receiving total of 28 yards from back in Week 3. Pierce has just 341 rushing yards on 114 carries (3.0 YPC) and only one scrimmage touchdown in eight appearances heading into a Week 13 visit from the Broncos.
Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns from three-game absence
Pierce (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Pierce missed the Texans' last three games due to a high-ankle sprain and was listed as questionable heading into Sunday, but there was no real mystery with regard to his Week 12 status after he put in full practices Wednesday through Friday. Whether Pierce reclaims the lead role out of the backfield he held through the Texans' first seven games of the season is less certain, however, especially after Devin Singletary accounted for 305 total yards and two touchdowns on 70 touches (65 carries,…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 8:40am by Rotowire.com
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Appears set to return Sunday
Pierce (ankle) is expected to play in Sunday's game versus Jacksonville, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Pierce has missed three straight games due to an ankle injury and came into this weekend deemed questionable to play, but he appears to have shown enough improvement to suit up against the Jaguars. That doesn't necessarily mean that he'll return to a lead-back role, however. In addition to Pierce potentially needing some time to settle back in following the injury and multi-week absence, Devin Singletary may have put himself in position to hold onto the starting job by racking up 262 rushing…read more
Published: Sat, Nov 25 at 8:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Takes questionable tag into Sunday
The Texans list Pierce (ankle) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Though Pierce has missed the Texans' last three games and is taking a designation into Sunday, he appears on track to play after he was listed as a full practice participant Wednesday and Friday. Assuming Pierce is cleared ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, he could be relegated to sharing work out of the backfield with Devin Singletary, who averaged 4.4 yards on 65 rushing attempts while catching five passes for 17 yards and scoring twice while operating as Houston's lead back the past three…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 24 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to full practice
Pierce (ankle) was a full practice participant Wednesday.
Analysis: Pierce missed a third straight game this past Sunday against the Cardinals, but he appeared to take a step forward leading up to that contest, as he was able to return to practice Friday as a limited participant. He's now opened Week 12 prep as a full participant, signaling that he's moved past the ankle issue and is on track to suit up Sunday against the Jaguars. Though Pierce has served as Houston's starting running back in each of his seven appearances this season and could take the first…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 22 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Practicing again
Pierce (ankle) is taking part in practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce returned to practice last Friday as a limited participant before missing a third straight game in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals. He's on track to be ready for an AFC South battle with Jacksonville on Sunday, though he probably won't be returning to a lead role after Devin Singletary put forth Houston's two best rushing performances of the season the past two weeks.
Published: Wed, Nov 22 at 10:46am by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Sunday
Pierce (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Pierce returned to a limited practice Friday, which offers hope he could return to action Week 12 against the Jaguars. However, now that he's been ruled out for Sunday's contest, Devin Singletary -- who's coming off a 150-yard rushing effort Week 10 -- once again is in line to lead the Texans backfield.
Published: Fri, Nov 17 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Back at practice
Pierce (ankle) was present for Friday's practice, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, but the running back's presence on the field Friday offers hope that he could potentially return to the mix Sunday against the Cardinals. The Texans' upcoming injury report will add further context to Pierce's Week 11 status, but if he's available versus Arizona, he could reenter the mix in a timeshare with Devin Singletary, who's coming off a 150-yard rushing effort Week 10.
Published: Fri, Nov 17 at 9:31am by Rotowire.com
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Still not practicing
Pierce (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Back-to-back absences set the stage for what (if anything) Pierce does Friday to provide key context regarding the running back's chances of returning to action Sunday against the Cardinals. If Pierce is forced to miss his third straight game this weekend, Devin Singletary would once again be in line to lead the Texans backfield Week 11.
Published: Thu, Nov 16 at 10:20am by Rotowire.com
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Not at practice
Pierce (ankle) isn't practicing Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Another absence from practice suggests Pierce is in danger of missing a third straight game when the Texans face the Cardinals this Sunday. Even if Pierce demonstrates enough progress as the week goes along to play against Arizona, he may be returning to a smaller role than what he enjoyed previously. Devin Singletary erupted for 150 rushing yards in a 30-27 win over the Bengals this past Sunday, while Pierce has failed to exceed 81 rushing yards in any of his seven appearances this season and…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 15 at 11:34am by Rotowire.com
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Remains out for Week 10
Pierce (ankle) is listed as out for Sunday's game against the Bengals.
Analysis: Pierce was unable to practice in any fashion this week and will sit out a second straight game while he recovers from an ankle injury. Devin Singletary -- who played 74 percent of the Texans' snaps on offense but mustered just 26 yards on 13 carries and zero yards on two receptions in last week's 39-37 win over the Buccaneers -- is likely to get another turn as Houston's lead back in Pierce's stead.
Published: Fri, Nov 10 at 1:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains sidelined Friday
Pierce (ankle) wasn't present for Friday's practice, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce also missed practice Wednesday and Thursday and thus is trending toward missing Sunday's game against the Bengals. If Pierce is ruled out for the contest, Devin Singletary would once again serve as Houston's lead option out of the backfield in Week 10.
Published: Fri, Nov 10 at 9:39am by Rotowire.com
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Remains sidelined Thursday
Pierce (ankle) didn't practice Thursday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce also missed Wednesday's session, so what the running back is able to do Friday will be telling in terms of his chances of playing Sunday against the Bengals. If Pierce misses a second straight game this weekend, Devin Singletary would continue to serve as Houston's lead option out of the backfield.
Published: Thu, Nov 9 at 10:28am by Rotowire.com
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Won't practice Wednesday
Pierce (ankle) isn't in line to practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce didn't practice last week before being ruled out for this past Sunday's 39-37 win over the Buccaneers. The running back now has two more chances to return to the field ahead of this weekend's game against the Bengals, but if he remains sidelined, Devin Singletary would once again be in line to handle the bulk of the Texans' backfield touches.
Published: Wed, Nov 8 at 10:33am by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Sunday
Pierce (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: With Pierce, who didn't practice this week, officially ruled out, Devin Singletary is in line to lead the Texans backfield Sunday, a context that puts him on the Week 9 fantasy lineup radar. In the mix for complementary touches this weekend will be Mike Boone, with Dare Ogunbowale in reserve. Pierce now will target a potential return to game action Sunday, Nov. 12 against the Bengals.
Published: Fri, Nov 3 at 1:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Not expected to play Sunday
Pierce (ankle) is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday and appears to be trending toward missing Sunday's contest. If that ends up being confirmed by the Texans later Friday, Devin Singletary would be in line to step into an expanded role this weekend, with Mike Boone and Dare Ogunbowale in reserve.
Published: Fri, Nov 3 at 10:20am by Rotowire.com
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Not practicing again
Pierce (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Two straight absences from practice to begin Week 9 prep have left Pierce's status uncertain for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. He'll likely need to practice in some fashion Friday to have a shot at playing this weekend, but if Pierce is sidelined Sunday, Devin Singletary would likely step in as the team's lead back. No. 3 back Mike Boone would also have an expanded role behind Singletary.
Published: Thu, Nov 2 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with ankle issue
Pierce sat out practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: Per Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, Pierce's status for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers has yet to be determined, with head coach DeMeco Ryans telling Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site that the team plans to "see where [Pierce] is as the week goes on." If Pierce ends up sitting out this weekend, Devin Singletary would be next in line for snaps and touches out of the Houston backfield.
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 2:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Wednesday
Pierce didn't practice Wednesday, Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site reports.
Analysis: The Texans will release their first Week 9 injury report later Wednesday, when a reason behind Pierce's absence will be known. At this stage of the week, head coach DeMeco Ryans was not yet willing to commit to the running back being available for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. Devin Singletary and, to a lesser degree, Mike Boone, would be in line to see added backfield touches Week 9 if Pierce sits out or is available only in a limited capacity.
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 12:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Modest numbers against Carolina
Pierce carried the ball 12 times for 46 yards in Sunday's 15-13 loss to the Panthers.
Analysis: Despite a matchup with one of the league's weaker run defenses, Pierce failed to average at least 4.0 yards a carry for the seventh straight game this season. Devin Singletary saw an equivalent workload (10 carries and two receptions) and also did little with his opportunities, so the Houston backfield remains an unappealing mess from a fantasy perspective. Pierce will try to get something going in Week 9 against the Buccaneers.
Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Confident running game will improve
Pierce said Friday that this season has been like another rookie year for him, but he currently feels "amazing" and believes the Texans are "really close" to establishing a successful running game, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce doesn't exactly sound frustrated; he appears to be acknowledging that he's had a tough adjustment period under new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who has overseen a productive offense overall under the leadership of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. The running back didn't mention being frustrated with his role or usage, though fantasy managers have some cause for concern after Devin Singletary received just one fewer carry than Pierce (13 to 12) in Houston's final game before its…read more
Published: Fri, Oct 27 at 11:20am by Rotowire.com
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Splits with Singletary in Week 6
Pierce rushed 13 times for 34 yards and wasn't targeted in Sunday's 20-13 win over the Saints.
Analysis: Pierce was outplayed by Devin Singletary, who rushed 12 times for 58 yards. With just 281 yards on 97 carries (2.9 YPC), Pierce has struggled despite seeing substantial volume, which opened the door for Singletary to siphon off a larger share of backfield opportunities in Sunday's win. Both Houston running backs could be poised for success against Carolina's generous run defense in Week 8 after a Week 7 bye.
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 1:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Unable to repeat rookie production
Pierce is averaging fewer yards after contact and per carry than he had as a rookie in 2022.
Analysis: Thus far in 2023, Pierce's numbers are down across the board. He's averaged 2.21 yards after contact (3.29 in 2022), per Pro Football Focus, and 2.9 yards per carry overall (4.3 in 2022). Pierce's outlook gets bleaker in the red zone, where he's been stopped for no gain or lost yards on eight of 12 carries (0.33 yards per carry). Some of his struggles can be chalked up to injuries along the offensive line, but Pierce's red-zone rushing didn't get any better Week 5 against Atlanta with Laremy…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 11 at 4:49am by Rotowire.com
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Eclipses 80 total yards in loss
Pierce rushed 20 times for 66 yards and brought in his only target for 16 yards in the Texans' 21-19 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.
Analysis: Pierce once again toughed his way through an inefficient day, as even the return of two starting offensive linemen from injury for the Texans wasn't enough to open up sufficient running lanes for the second-year back. No running back other than Pierce logged a carry for Houston, the first time that's happened all season. Pierce therefore looks as secure as ever in his role as workhorse back heading into a Week 6 home matchup against the Saints.
Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Takes full reps Thursday
Pierce (knee) was a full participant in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: Pierce opened Week 5 prep Wednesday as a limited practice participant, but his advancement to full activity a day later clears up any concern about the knee issue keeping him sidelined this Sunday at Atlanta. Though Pierce remains the Texans' lead back, he's perhaps shared more work than anticipated with top backup Devin Singletary through the first four weeks of the season. Even while he took on a season-high 24 carries in this past Sunday's 30-6 drubbing of the Steelers, Pierce still played…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 2:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by knee issue
Pierce was listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a knee injury, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Pierce was on the field for 42 of Houston's 71 snaps on offense in this past Sunday's win over the Steelers, finishing with a season-high 24 carries for 81 yards to go along with one catch on two targets for 27 yards. Though Pierce's reps were capped Wednesday, the Texans haven't suggested that the running back is in danger of missing this weekend's game against the Falcons. Even so, Pierce will likely need to practice fully by Friday in order to head into the weekend without an injury…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Delivers season-best yardage in win
Pierce carried the ball 24 times for 81 yards and caught one of two targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 30-6 win over the Steelers.
Analysis: After being held under 40 rushing yards in his first three contests of the season, Pierce finally produced solid numbers in what on paper was a tough matchup against the Pittsburgh defense. His 3.4 yards per carry was still lackluster however, and he got by on volume during a game in which Houston led 16-0 at halftime. Pierce could have trouble seeing a similar workload in Week 5 against the Falcons.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Continues struggling on ground
Pierce rushed 14 times for 31 yards and a touchdown and brought in all three targets for 28 yards in the Texans' 37-17 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.
Analysis: Pierce once again put up an ugly line efficiency-wise, but he did manage to salvage his fantasy day with a one-yard touchdown run that opened the scoring and served as his first trip to the end zone this season. Pierce's involvement as a receiver was also a welcome sight, and he's now logged three targets apiece in each of the first three games. Nevertheless, backfield mate Devin Singletary gained 10 more yards on five fewer carries than Pierce on Sunday while also recording a pair of grabs in…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 4:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Stymied on ground in loss
Pierce rushed 15 times for 31 yards and brought in two of three targets for four yards in the Texans' 31-20 loss to the Colts on Sunday.
Analysis: Pierce significantly outpaced backfield mate Devin Singletary in carries, but the former, a 2022 fourth-round pick, once again found running room at a premium behind a severely short-handed offensive line that was down four projected 2023 starters. Through two games, Pierce has been unable to come close to matching some of his rookie-season top-end production, garnering just 69 yards on 26 carries. Unfortunately for Pierce's fantasy managers, the combination of the likelihood the Texans…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 17 at 3:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Held in check in Week 1 loss
Pierce rushed 11 times for 38 yards and brought in two of three targets for nine yards in the Texans' 25-9 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.
Analysis: Pierce led the Texans in rushing yards and outpaced new backfield mate Devin Singletary by four carries, but his day was hardly a fantasy success. The matchup against a talented Baltimore defensive front certainly didn't help his cause, but rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud's serviceable performance in his pro debut supports the notion defenses could soon be loosening up some for Pierce if his rookie QB continues on an upward trajectory. Pierce's first chance to improve on the lackluster…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Improved play Sunday
Pierce started Houston's final preseason game Sunday, rushing five times for 30 yards (no targets) in a 17-13 exhibition win over the Saints.
Analysis: Pierce bounced back from a lackluster exhibition debut against Miami last week, doubling his yardage output on one less carry. The second-year back received the first backfield touch after doing the same in his previous outing. Mike Boone handled receiving duties while sharing the second-half touches with Devin Singletary. It's clear that Pierce is the top dog in Houston's new-look backfield heading into a Week 1 matchup against Baltimore.
Published: Sun, Aug 27 at 9:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles in preseason start
Pierce made his preseason debut Saturday, rushing six times for 15 yards in a 28-3 loss to Miami.
Analysis: It was a rough go of things for Houston's entire backfield, as none of Pierce, Mike Boone or Devin Singletary could muster more than three yards per carry. Pierce started with the first-team offense and also received the Texans' first carry, which shouldn't be surprising after his standout rookie campaign. The 23-year-old may not see the hefty workload he logged in 2022 when he averaged 19.2 combined touches following the offseason additions of Boone and Singletary. That said, Pierce is the…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 5:28pm by Rotowire.com
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On track to play Saturday
Pierce expects to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Dolphins, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Pierce didn't play in last Thursday's preseason opener against the Patriots, but it appears as though the 2022 fourth-rounder will log some playing time this weekend. As the coming season approaches, Pierce is poised to continue to head a Texans backfield that also includes veteran newcomer Devin Singletary, as well as Mike Boone, Dare Ogunbowale and Gerrid Doaks.
Published: Thu, Aug 17 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Not on track to play Thursday
Pierce isn't in line to play in Thursday's preseason opener against the Patriots, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Though a number of the Texans' key players are slated to see action in the contest, the team evidently plans to play it safe with Pierce, who is listed as the top running back on the team's unofficial depth chart. Houston's next exhibition contest is Saturday, Aug. 19 against the Dolphins.
Published: Thu, Aug 10 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Sets goal for 2023
Pierce set a goal to rush for 1,000 yards in 2023, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com reports. "That's what I expect from me," the running back said. "[Offensive coordinator Bobby] Slowik expects that. Everybody around me expects that, and I'm going to try everything in my power to get that."
Analysis: Pierce fell 61 yards shy of 1,000 yards during his rookie 2022 season, but he missed the final four games with an ankle injury. The organization has done everything to help Pierce achieve that goal by investing heavily in the offensive line. In March, the Texans extended left tackle Laremy Tunsil (three years, $75 million), then extended right guard Shaq Mason (three years, $36 million) in May before adding another three years to right tackle Tytus Howard ($56 million) prior to training camp.…read more
Published: Sat, Jul 29 at 8:02am by Rotowire.com
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Looking healthy at OTAs
Pierce (ankle) is practicing Tuesday, Deepi Sidhu of the Texans' official site reports.
Analysis: Pierce was running routes at full speed and caught a pass from rookie QB C.J. Stroud at Houston's first OTA practice. The 2022 fourth-round pick gained only 165 yards from his 30 receptions last year, but he was eighth in the league with 72.2 rushing yards per game and started each of his 13 appearances before suffering a season-ending ankle injury. Pierce suggested in January that he could've suited up Week 18 if the Texans had more to play for, so it seems he enjoyed a healthy, normal…read more
Published: Tue, May 23 at 9:57am by Rotowire.com
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On schedule in recovery
Pierce said he is "on schedule" in his recovery from an ankle injury suffered Dec. 11 against the Cowboys, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce said he could have played the season finale against the Colts, but an "administrative decision" was made to put him on injured reserve. With nothing to play for, the organization didn't want to expose Pierce to further injury or set back his offseason program leading into the 2023 season. He's expected to return as the lead back next year, but much depends on the thoughts of a new coaching regime. With an expected change at quarterback -- the organization will likely choose a quarterback…read more
Published: Sat, Jan 14 at 7:14am by Rotowire.com
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Hitting injured reserve
The Texans placed Pierce (ankle) on injured reserve Saturday, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce sustained a high-ankle sprain last Sunday at Dallas, and while there was an initial belief that he'd be sidelined for just 1-to-2 weeks, the tide has changed, and he'll now miss the final four games of the campaign. Operating as Houston's lead running back as a rookie fourth-round pick this year, he'll cap it with 220 carries for 939 yards (4.3 YPC) and four touchdowns and 30 catches (on 39 targets) for 165 yards and one more score in 13 appearances.
Published: Sat, Dec 17 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Week 15
Pierce (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
Analysis: With Pierce officially ruled out, Rex Burkhead and Dare Ogunbowale to are in line to share the Texans' backfield duties in Week 15, at a minimum. With that in mind, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN previously reported that Pierce could miss up to three games due to the high ankle sprain he suffered this past week against the Cowboys. While the Texans haven't confirmed that the running back will miss time beyond this weekend, Pierce's status for the team's Dec. 24 contest against the Titans continues to…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 16 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Sitting out Friday
Pierce (ankle) is not participating in the portion of Friday's practice open to the media, Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com reports.
Analysis: It appears Pierce will miss practice for the third consecutive day as he manages a high-ankle sprain. The 22-year-old appears likely to miss his first game of the season Sunday against Kansas City, which would leave Rex Burkhead and Dare Ogunbowale to split backfield duties for Houston.
Published: Fri, Dec 16 at 8:24am by Rotowire.com
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Misses another practice
Pierce (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Aaron Wilson of Sports Talk 790 reports.
Analysis: Pierce is dealing with a high-ankle sprain and is trending toward being ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chiefs come Friday. If that's the case, Rex Burkhead and Dare Ogunbowale will be in line to handle the Texans' backfield duties Week 15.
Published: Thu, Dec 15 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Sits out practice
Pierce (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Brooks Kubena and Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle previously reported that Pierce is dealing with a high-ankle sprain that will likely prevent him from playing in Sunday's game against the Chiefs, so his absence from the Texans' first Week 15 practice hardly comes as a surprise. Rather than suiting up this Sunday, Pierce may do well just to make it back for the Texans' Week 16 game at Tennessee, given that other reports have suggested he could be sidelined for two or three weeks. In…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 14 at 2:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to miss Sunday's matchup
Pierce (ankle) is expected to miss Sunday's matchup against Kansas City, Brooks Kubena and Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce suffered a left ankle sprain during Sunday's 27-23 loss to Dallas. While he was able to play through the issue in Week 14, he's expected to miss at least one game and it's believed he could be sidelined for up to three contests, per DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com. The rookie running back had totaled 1,104 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns this season, so his absence would be a big blow to Houston's offense. Rex Burkhead and Dare Ogunbowale figure to handle most of the backfield work in…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 13 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Could miss multiple games
Pierce suffered a "relatively mild" left high-ankle sprain in Sunday's 27-23 loss to the Cowboys and could miss 1-to-2 weeks, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: According to Wilson, Pierce went in for an MRI on Monday that revealed no structural damage, though his tests confirmed that he's dealing with the high-ankle sprain. The Texans haven't confirmed the diagnosis, but the standout rookie appears likely to miss at least the team's Week 15 game against Kansas City at a minimum. If Pierce sits out this weekend, the Texans would be left with Rex Burkhead and Dare Ogunbowale at running back after waiving Eno Benjamin on Tuesday.
Published: Tue, Dec 13 at 6:04am by Rotowire.com
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Seen limping following game
Pierce (ankle) was seen limping in the locker room following Sunday's 27-23 loss to the Cowboys, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce, who sustained an ankle injury in the fourth quarter, got taped up and tried to return, but head coach Lovie Smith didn't feel the rookie back could be effective, even as a decoy. The injury preceded a Dallas turnover that set the Texans up at the Cowboys' four-yard line and gave them an opportunity to take a two-score lead late in the game, but without Pierce to punch the ball across the goal line, Houston failed to score. Rex Burkhead was used as his replacement on the series and had…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 12 at 6:25am by Rotowire.com
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Injures ankle Sunday
Pierce was forced out of Sunday's game against the Cowboys with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Prior to his exit, Pierce had carried 22 times for 78 yards and a TD. In his absence, Rex Burkhead, Dare Ogunbowale and Eno Benjamin are available to handle the Texans' backfield touches.
Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 12:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Approaches 100 total yards
Pierce rushed the ball 18 times for 73 yards in Sunday's 27-14 loss to the Browns. He added three receptions on three targets for 22 yards.
Analysis: Pierce entered the game having recorded 16 rushing yards on 15 carries across his last two games. While his performance against the Browns wasn't overly positive, it did represent a significant improvement from both a volume and efficiency perspective. However, Pierce managed only one rush of more than 10 yards and does not have a gain of more than 20 yards in any of his last three games. While he's shown the ability to excel as a pro, it's difficult to trust Pierce moving forward given the…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 7:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Low usage in Week 12 loss
Pierce rushed five times for eight yards and brought in three of six targets for eight yards in the Texans' 30-15 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie saw disappointingly low usage for the second straight game, although the fact the Texans were down 30-0 at the half naturally played the biggest role in him being iced out of the offense. Pierce' s talent as both a runner and receiver is undeniable, but his attachment to a team with significant quarterback issues does him no favors. He'll look to break out of the two-game funk against the Browns in a Week 13 home matchup.
Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 3:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Worst game as pro Sunday
Pierce rushed 10 times for eight yards and secured two of three targets for nine yards in the Texans' 23-10 loss to the Commanders on Sunday.
Analysis: Pierce was the latest back to fall victim to a stalwart Commanders run defense, leading to his lowest single-game rushing total as a pro. The star rookie's previous low-water mark came in Week 1 against the Colts, but he encouragingly remained involved in the passing game with his fourth game in the last five with multiple receptions. Pierce will have another tough assignment on his plate when the Texans travel to South Florida to face the Dolphins in a Week 12 matchup.
Published: Sun, Nov 20 at 2:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Racks up another 122 yards
Pierce rushed the ball 17 times for 94 yards in Sunday's 24-16 loss to the Giants. He added two receptions for 28 yards.
Analysis: Pierce saw a slight downturn in volume compared to his Week 9 outburst, but he still accounted for 17 of Houston's 19 carries. He was bottled up for many of those attempts, though he found daylight on a 44-yard rush early in the second quarter. Pierce also chipped in multiple receptions for the sixth time in his last seven games, which helped him surpass 100 total yards for the second consecutive contest. The Texans' offensive struggles may keep Pierce from regularly finding the end zone, but…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 13 at 4:48pm by Rotowire.com
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Avoids Week 10 designation
Pierce (chest/shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Analysis: Pierce is in the clear for the Texans' Week 10 game after he concluded the week with a full practice Friday following limited showings Wednesday and Thursday. The rookie's restrictions in practice to begin the week may just have been maintenance-related, given that he's handled one of the heavier running-back workloads in the NFL since Week 2. Over Houston's last seven games, Pierce hasn't played any fewer than 34 snaps in any contest and is averaging 19.6 carries and 3.3 targets.
Published: Fri, Nov 11 at 12:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited practice
Pierce (chest/shoulder) remained limited in practice Thursday.
Analysis: So far, there's been nothing to suggest that Pierce's availability for Sunday's game against the Giants is in any danger, but the Texans' top running back likely will have to practice fully Friday in order to avoid a Week 10 injury designation. Pierce is coming off a Week 9 effort in a loss to the Eagles in which he was on the field for 47 of a possible 60 snaps on offense, while carrying 27 times for 139 yards.
Published: Thu, Nov 10 at 1:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Reps capped in practice
Pierce was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice due to chest and shoulder injuries.
Analysis: During last Thursday's loss to the Eagles, Pierce was on the field for 47 of a possible 60 snaps on offense and carrying 27 times for 139 yards. With no reported setbacks in that contest, Pierce may have been limited Wednesday for maintenance purposes, so at this stage, fantasy managers have no major reason to worry about his status for Sunday's game against the Giants. Added context with regard to the running back's Week 10 availability will arrive upon the release of Thursday's practice…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 9 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Rips through Eagles D in loss
Pierce rushed 27 times for 139 yards and wasn't targeted in the passing game during the Texans' 29-17 loss to the Eagles on Thursday night.
Analysis: The rookie was unsurprisingly heavily involved on a night when the Texans' air attack was missing Brandin Cooks (wrist/personal) and Nico Collins (groin), and he was able to take advantage of a giving Eagles run defense. Pierce's long run went for 36 yards, with that scamper part of an 88-yard first half. As has often been the case this season, the fourth-round pick remained consistently involved irrespective of game script, and he'll aim for his third 100-yard effort of the season in a Week 10…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 3 at 8:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone against Titans
Pierce carried the ball 15 times for 35 yards and caught three of five targets for 16 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: It was shaping up to be a very quiet day for the rookie running back until he caught a three-yard TD from Davis Mills with 17 seconds left in the fourth quarter. Pierce has gotten into the end zone or reached 100 scrimmage yards, or both, in five straight games, and he'll look to extend that streak in Week 9 against the undefeated Eagles.
Published: Sun, Oct 30 at 8:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Another 100-plus scrimmage yards
Pierce carried the ball 20 times for 92 yards and caught all four of his targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 38-20 loss to the Raiders.
Analysis: While he was overshadowed by a huge performance from Las Vegas' Josh Jacobs, Pierce was still plenty productive, recording his fourth straight game with more than 100 yards from scrimmage. The rookie has 402 rushing yards, 68 receiving yards and three rushing TDs over that stretch, and he'll be the centerpiece of the Texans' offense again in Week 8 as they take on Derrick Henry and the Titans.
Published: Sun, Oct 23 at 5:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Powers way to big day
Pierce rushed 26 times for 99 yards and a touchdown while catching three of five targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 13-6 win over Jacksonville.
Analysis: Pierce dominated the backfield touches (26 of 29) and plodded his way to a third straight game with at least 80 rushing yards and a score. The red-hot rookie is averaging 94.8 rushing yards since taking over as the Texans' lead back in Week 2. With a combination of results and touches, Pierce should be considered a must-start asset when Houston returns from its bye and takes on Las Vegas in Week 7.
Published: Sun, Oct 9 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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On bench during crunch time
Houston offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton discussed the running back rotation, which has Pierce on the bench late in games, Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site reports. "Just like with any young player, it's not always in the best interest of the unit to put them in those situations," Hamilton said.
Analysis: Close watchers of the Texans, including fantasy managers who start Pierce, have observed veteran Rex Burkhead being on the field late in games in favor of the rookie. Burkhead's experience is handy in certain situations -- typically when the Texans want to present a passing threat or intend to throw -- but Hamilton acknowledged Pierce as the "ability to process the information" and could be on the field in passing formations. This could be a case where the coaches don't want to put too much on…read more
Published: Fri, Oct 7 at 6:34am by Rotowire.com
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Scores 75-yard touchdown
Pierce rushed 14 times for 131 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-24 loss to the Chargers. He also caught all six of his targets for eight yards.
Analysis: Pierce took a pitch 75 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter, fueling his productive day on the ground. The rookie also hauled in every pass thrown his way, albeit for minimal yardage. Now with back-to-back games with at least 100 scrimmage yards and a touchdown, Pierce approaches next Sunday's matchup versus the Jaguars with significant momentum.
Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Full practice Thursday
Pierce (hip) returned to a full practice Thursday, Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com reports.
Analysis: Pierce logged a limited practice Wednesday, but his return to full participation puts the 2022 fourth-rounder on track to lead the Texans' backfield Sunday against the Chargers. In his team's 23-20 loss to the Bears in Week 3, Pierce was Houston's clear-cut top back, recording 20 carries for 80 yards and a TD to go along with two catches for 21 yards. He did fumble twice in the contest, but both were recovered by the Texans. As long as that's not a recurring issue for the rookie, Pierce should…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 29 at 2:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as limited Wednesday
Pierce was limited participant at practice Wednesday due to a hip injury, Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com reports.
Analysis: Pierce logged 35 snaps and carried 20 times for 80 yards and a touchdown while adding two catches for 21 yards in this past Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Bears. Assuming the hip issue that limited him Wednesday isn't a significant concern, the rookie fourth-round pick should once again lead the way in the Texans' backfield Week 4 against the Chargers.
Published: Wed, Sep 28 at 2:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Earns 20 carries
Pierce carried the ball 20 times for 80 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Bears. He added two receptions for 21 yards.
Analysis: Pierce served as the Texans' lead back for the second consecutive week, as he out-touched Rex Burkhead 21-7. He tallied new career highs in attempts and yards while also plunging into the end zone from one yard away for his first career touchdown. Pierce will be challenged to consistently put up big performances due to the Texans' poor offense, but he has established himself as the preferred option in the team's backfield.
Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 5:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Garners 77 total yards in loss
Pierce rushed 15 times for 69 yards and brought in his only target for eight yards in the Texans' 16-9 loss to the Broncos on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie back was explosive while seeing his volume bump up by four total touches over Week 1, and Pierce was much more efficient with them as well. Head coach Lovie Smith had noted earlier in the week how Pierce needed to be much more involved in the offense moving forward, and in Week 2, the extra workload did come to pass as the fourth-round pick was the only Texans running back to log any carries. Pierce will next take aim at the Bears' questionable rush defense in a Week 3 road matchup…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 5:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Could see workload pick up
Houston head coach Lovie Smith said Wednesday that Pierce needs to be more involved in the offense, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports. "We need to get Dameon more touches," Smith noted.
Analysis: Pierce played 29 percent of the offensive snaps in a Week 1 tie with the Colts, while Red Burkhead played 71 percent. Following the game, Smith initially attributed the playing-time split to a game situation that called for more pass-oriented packages, which he said worked in Burkhead's favor. Perhaps after watching game film, Smith is of a different belief. The coach added that both backs will get carries Week 2 against Denver, but the snap counts could be more evenly distributed compared to…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 14 at 6:56pm by Rotowire.com
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May need work on passing downs
Houston head coach Lovie Smith suggested Rex Burkhead played more than Pierce in Week 1 because the rookie is not the top option in passing situations, the Texans' official site reports. "As we look at the plays now, Rex got a chance to carry the ball more. Passing plays, passing situations, Rex was our lead back in that situation, so that's kind of what happened," the coach said.
Analysis: The comments suggest Pierce has to work at becoming a more complete back and improve his ability to pass protect to avoid falling victim to unfavorable game scripts. Smith indicated that it would be a different case if the Texans were playing with a lead, but even then, Burkhead could still win out over the rookie. Houston held a 20-3 after three quarters, but the ground game was stalled by a stingy Colts defense. That meant more passing formations and more Burkhead.
Published: Mon, Sep 12 at 5:45am by Rotowire.com
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Modest production in debut
Pierce rushed 11 times for 33 yards and secured his only target for six yards in the Texans' 20-20 tie with the Colts on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie ultimately didn't serve as the lead back in terms of volume Sunday, with veteran Rex Burkhead outpacing him by three carries and seven targets. Both players generally found running room at a premium against a stingy Colts front that limited Houston to 2.8 yards per carry overall, but Pierce should certainly continue getting his fair share of opportunity over the course of his rookie campaign as head coach Lovie Smith tries to protect second-year quarterback Davis Mills. Pierce's…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Confirmed as starter
Head coach Lovie Smith confirmed Wednesday that Pierce is the Texans' starting running back, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports. "He's earned the right to run with the ones, and I'm anxious to see him play," Smith said of the rookie fourth-round pick.
Analysis: With Pierce atop the team's posted depth chart ahead of Sunday's season opener against the Colts and poised to handle the lead role out of the backfield, look for Rex Burkhead to work in a complementary capacity. Of particular note in his NFL debut will be what sort of volume Pierce logs, given that the 5-foot-10, 218-pound back often worked in a committee during his collegiate career at Florida.
Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 8:36am by Rotowire.com
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Sits atop depth chart
Pierce is listed as the No. 1 running back on the Texans' unofficial Week 1 depth chart released Tuesday.
Analysis: The rookie's appearance atop the depth chart comes as little surprise after the Texans chose to hold him out of their preseason finale along with most of the other team's projected Week 1 starters. Though Pierce should be on the field for the team's first offensive snap Sunday against the Colts, the extent of his role hasn't yet been fully fleshed out and could fluctuate from week to week depending on what game script the Houston offense is following. As the roster currently stands, Pierce…read more
Published: Tue, Sep 6 at 12:15pm by Rotowire.com
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No longer competing with Mack
Pierce faces less competition for playing time with the Texans set to release Marlon Mack, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Pierce ran for 49 yards in the preseason opener, was rested for the second game and then played with the starters in the third and final exhibition, taking six carries for 37 yards and a TD. Mack wasn't bad this preseason, but he'd fallen behind Pierce for early down work and doesn't have much experience playing special teams or handling passing downs. While coach Lovie Smith has declined to name a starter, Pierce is an overwhelming favorite to lead the team in carries Week 1 at Indianapolis,…read more
Published: Tue, Aug 30 at 11:47am by Rotowire.com
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RB starter not named by coach
As Week 1 approaches, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle notes that coach Lovie Smith declined Monday to name a starting running back in a Texans backfield that includes Pierce, Marlon Mack and Rex Burkhead.
Analysis: When asked whether Pierce, who has been impressive during the preseason, had done enough to earn the team's starting job, Smith elected not to provide clarity on that front, quite possibly to keep early-season opponents guessing. "Dameon Pierce has played good ball pretty much since he got in the facility," Smith said. "He's a good football player, right amount of power. He'll make you miss in the open field. He can catch the ball. He can do a lot of things that NFL running backs do." Despite…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 29 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Likely lead back for Week 1
Pierce likely will be the Texans' top running back in their season opener against the Colts on Sept. 11, Jonathan M. Alexander of The Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce was rested for Houston's second preseason game after running for 49 yards off the bench in the opener, and he then capped things off by starting the final exhibition and taking six carries for 37 yards and a touchdown in a win over the 49ers. Marlon Mack had a decent preseason with 21 carries for 90 yards, but he mostly got work in the second half of the finale, long after Pierce had been pulled. The fourth-round rookie should be Houston's lead runner to start the season, with Rex…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 26 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone in starting role
Pierce rushed six times for 37 yards and a touchdown as Houston's starting running back in Thursday's 17-0 preseason win over San Francisco.
Analysis: Pierce was the only Texans running back to touch the ball on the opening drive, which he capped with a one-yard rushing touchdown. The rookie out of Florida seems to have cemented himself as Houston's top option in the backfield heading into the regular season, with the versatile Rex Burkhead also in the mix, along with Marlon Mack, who didn't see the field until the second half Thursday.
Published: Thu, Aug 25 at 8:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to play Thursday
With coach Lovie Smith planning to use Thursday's preseason finale against the 49ers as something of a dress rehearsal, per Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com, Pierce is expected to see action in the contest.
Analysis: After logging five carries for 49 yards in the team's preseason opener, Pierce was rested last Friday against the Rams, with Smith suggesting that he'd already seen what he needed to see from the 2022 fourth-rounder, per Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle. That said, Alexander notes that Smith isn't tipping his hat regarding who will be the team's starting RB in Week 1, but given Pierce's impressive camp and effectiveness in his limited preseason action, the Florida product is…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 25 at 9:13am by Rotowire.com
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Possible Week 1 starter
Pierce could be Houston's Week 1 starter, or at least a major contributor, though coach Lovie Smith hasn't commented on the matter, Jonathan M. Alexander of The Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: After taking five carries for 49 yards in the preseason opener, Pierce was rested in the second exhibition matchup, with Smith saying he'd already seen what he needed to see from the rookie running back. It's unclear if Pierce will play in the team's final preseason game Thursday against San Francisco, but the Texans are expected to play most starters for a third straight week, including QB Davis Mills. With Pierce held out of the second preseason game, Marlon Mack got most of the early down…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 22 at 11:27am by Rotowire.com
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Might be the lead back
Texans head coach Lovie Smith said Pierce didn't play in Friday's preseason game against the Rams because the coach didn't need to see him play, Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk reports.
Analysis: The football world was looking to see if Pierce would line up with the first-team offense Friday -- a sign that he would be the team's lead back come Week 1 -- but the rookie didn't play at all. Apparently, that turned out to be a greater sign that Pierce is the unofficial number one. Smith has seen what he needs to see from Pierce, opting not to expose him Friday, while the coach evaluated Marlon Mack and Rex Burkhead for slots behind the rookie.
Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 5:52am by Rotowire.com
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No action in Friday's win
Pierce did not log a carry or target during the Texans' 24-20 preseason win over the Rams on Friday night.
Analysis: There was no shortage of buzz around the rookie fourth-round pick following his five-carry, 49-yard performance against the Saints in the preseason opener, but head coach Lovie Smith opted to give his veteran backs the run of the ground game Friday. Pierce is battling Marlon Mack for the primary early-down role per Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 AM, and although the latter was more productive than in the opener with an eight-carry, 29-yard tally Friday, Pierce could conceivably lock in the No.…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 19 at 10:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Could be lead back
Houston head coach Lovie Smith has not named a lead back and will continue to evaluate Pierce among several candidates Friday when the Texans face the Rams in Los Angeles, Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site reports. "I think you let guys play," Smith said. "They kind of tell you who should start, who should be on the roster, how many plays they should get. They all have a certain strength, and we'll let it play out."
Analysis: Pierce was the lead story coming out of last week's preseason opener against the Saints, bolting for 20 yards on his first rushing attempt and finishing with 49 overall on five carries. He also showed up well in pass protection. Jonathan M. Alexander and Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle talked about Pierce and the team's RB1 situation heading into Friday's contest. The hype in Houston has started, but it should be noted that Pierce's production came against New Orleans' second-unit…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 19 at 3:56am by Rotowire.com
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Racks up 49 yards in pro debut
Pierce carried the ball five times for 49 yards in Saturday's 17-13 preseason win over the Saints. He was also targeted once in the passing game.
Analysis: Pierce was the first running back off the bench behind starter Marlon Mack, and the former stole the show out of the Texans' backfield en route to 9.8 yards per carry in his pro debut. Pierce wasted no time flashing the burst and agility that could eventually separate him from Mack and Rex Burkhead, as the rookie fourth-rounder took his very first touch for 20 yards early in the second quarter. He should head into the Texans' upcoming preseason contest against the Rams with some newfound…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 13 at 10:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed third on depth chart
Pierce is listed third on the Texans' unofficial depth chart for Saturday's preseason opener against the Saints, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: The 2022 fourth-round pick is behind Marlon Mack and Rex Burkhead. Pierce has impressed during drills in camp, but the Texans are anxious to see how he performs in pads against opponents in a game situation before moving him ahead of the veterans.
Published: Tue, Aug 9 at 4:06pm by Rotowire.com
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In mix as lead back
Pierce still is in the mix to be the Texans' lead running back, Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Marlon Mack is the presumed top back, but Houston head coach Lovie Smith refuses to confirm which of his RBs is the leader. "Coming into camp, we had numbered six guys we liked, nothing's changed," Smith said. Pierce has impressed coaches with the ball in his hands, but he has yet to play in a game and needs to do better as a blocker. More should be learned in the preseason opener Saturday, Aug. 13 against New Orleans.
Published: Sun, Aug 7 at 6:55am by Rotowire.com
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Shows vision Saturday
Pierce showed good vision returning kicks and on inside running drills during Saturday's practice, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Analysis: Pierce did a little bit of everything Saturday. He mostly honed his off-ball skills -- pass protection, route running -- and caught several checkdown passes during 11-on-11 drills, making himself available for quarterback Davis Mills. When it came time for special teams drills, Pierce fielded kicks and showed vision with the ball in his hands, a skill that didn't jump out during the combine or from his 4.59 40-yard dash time. "He's a tough guy," Houston head coach Lovie Smith said of Pierce.…read more
Published: Sun, Jul 31 at 7:28am by Rotowire.com
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