Texans Move On From Dameon Pierce Ahead of Bills Game
The Houston Texans made a quiet but notable roster change this week, waiving running back Dameon Pierce just before their matchup with the Buffalo Bills. The decision, first reported by Sports Illustrated, clears a roster spot for a defensive elevation and signals the end of Pierce’s time in Houston.
A Season With Fewer Opportunities
Pierce began the year with hopes of carving out a role, but the opportunities never really came. According to SI.com, he finished his 2025 run with only 10 carries for 26 yards, spending more time on special teams than in the actual offensive rotation. He was also a healthy scratch in multiple games, a clear sign that the coaching staff had shifted in a different direction.
It’s a tough drop-off for a player who once opened his career as the Texans’ lead back. But as Fantasy Footballers pointed out, his touches and involvement steadily faded, and he wasn’t expected to factor into the offense going forward.
Injuries and New Faces Changed the Backfield
Houston’s running back situation has been unpredictable all year. Veteran Joe Mixon, expected to handle the majority of carries, suffered a foot and ankle injury that knocked him out for the season. (Fantasy Footballers) Even with that setback, Pierce didn’t see an uptick in usage.
Instead, rookie Woody Marks stepped in and earned more trust as the season progressed. The Texans also leaned on Nick Chubb, who provided steady veteran reps. That combination pushed Pierce further down the depth chart, leaving him without a clear role.
Why the Texans Made the Call
With roster spots tight heading into Week 12, the Texans opted to waive Pierce and elevate rookie cornerback Daequan Hardy. Sports Illustrated reported that the move was timed specifically ahead of the Bills game, making it more about roster flexibility than any dramatic shift in philosophy.
Yahoo Sports noted that Pierce had been competing for a depth job early in the season, but as the rotation settled, there wasn’t a clear path for him.
What Pierce Faces Next
Pierce now hits free agency at age 25. Even though his time in Houston ended quietly, he still brings early-career production, special-teams ability, and experience in multiple systems. Teams dealing with late-season injuries could look his way, especially with the playoff push heating up.
For Houston, the release simply reflects where the backfield stands today: Marks emerging, Chubb contributing, Mixon shelved for the year, and Pierce no longer fitting into the picture.
More….
