Player Card

Fantasy Player Profile Dameon Pierce

  • Dameon Pierce
  • RB #31
  • Dameon
    Pierce
  • AActive
  • Manager: FA
  •  
@JAX: #3 vs opposing RB - 12.80 FPA
Bye Week7Rank43% Rostered91.4% Change-5.7WK 2 Pts5.50WK 3 Proj. Pts11.48
2023 Fantasy Stats
   PassingRushingReceivingRetMiscFumFantasy
WkOppResultsYdsTDIntYdsTDRecYdsTDTDFumTD2PTLostPts
1@BAL
Loss, 9-25
---38-29-----6.70
2IND
Loss, 20-31
---31-24-----5.50
3@JAX
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
4PIT
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
5@ATL
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
6NO
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
7Bye  ------------0.00
8@CAR
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
9TB
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
10@CIN
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
11ARI
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
12JAX
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
13DEN
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
------------0.00
14@NYJ
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
15@TEN
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
16CLE
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
17TEN
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
18@IND
TBDGet Tickets
------------0.00
2023 Fantasy Stats
  RushingReceivingFumFantasy
WkOppYdsTDYdsTDLostPts
1@BAL,
L 9-25
38-9--6.70
2IND,
L 20-31
31-4--5.50
3@JAX,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
4PIT,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
5@ATL,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
6NO,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
7Bye-----0.00
8@CAR,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
9TB,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
10@CIN,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
11ARI,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
12JAX,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
13DEN,
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
14@NYJ,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
15@TEN,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
16CLE,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
17TEN,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
18@IND,
TBDGet Tickets
-----0.00
  • 16.70
  • 25.50
  • 3
Fantasy Points
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News

  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • 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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