The Houston Texans have released running back Dameon Pierce, who has gone unclaimed through the NFL waiver wire. This unexpected decision opens the door for the Denver Broncos to potentially acquire him. With J.K. Dobbins on injured reserve, the Broncos are in search of a powerful running back to complement their offensive strategy.
Broncos Eye Dynamic RB Following Texans Release
Denver’s current rotation features rookie RJ Harvey, who struggled against the Kansas City Chiefs. He averaged only 2.7 yards per carry during that game, leading to questions about the team’s running back capabilities. While Jaleel McLaughlin brings energy, his smaller stature limits his ability to handle a significant workload.
Dameon Pierce: A Solid Option for the Broncos?
Selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Texans, Pierce had a standout rookie season. He recorded 939 rushing yards and four touchdowns across just 13 games. However, with a coaching shift in 2023 and a new offensive scheme, Pierce’s performance began to decline. His release was not due to poor character or work ethic, but rather a misalignment with the Texans’ offensive needs.
- Age: 25 years
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches
- Weight: 215 pounds
- Previous season metrics: 939 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns
The Broncos, currently leading the AFC West with a 9-2 record, are aiming to strengthen their running game. Acquiring Pierce could provide a physical presence in the backfield, especially useful for advancing through the playoffs. Pairing him with Harvey may create a balanced running attack, allowing Harvey to continue developing as a player.
Considerations for the Broncos’ Roster
If the Broncos decide to add Pierce to their 53-man roster, they will need to make an adjustment. Likely candidates for release include current players like wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey, as linebacker Drew Sanders may return this season. The team’s decision will depend on evaluating Pierce’s fit in their system compared to the existing roster.
As the regular season progresses, the Broncos must weigh their options carefully. Adding Dameon Pierce could enhance their playoff prospects significantly. Time will tell if this opportunity will materialize for Denver.
