The Houston Texans have waived running back Dameon Pierce, marking a significant turn for the player who once showed immense promise. The announcement came on Thursday, signaling the end of Pierce's tenure with the team after a relatively short period. The Texans have also made other roster moves, including signing Ajani Carter to the active roster and elevating Jalen Mills and Jackson Woodard. Additionally, they've added CB Damon Arnette Jr. to their practice squad.
Pierce's Rise and Fall
Dameon Pierce burst onto the scene as a rookie, showcasing his potential and earning the trust of the Texans' coaching staff. However, he has since fallen out of favor, leading to this unexpected release. The move raises questions about the future of the young running back and where he might land next.
A Promising Start
Pierce's rookie season was impressive, leading many to believe he would become a cornerstone of the Texans' offense. His running style and determination were evident, and he quickly became a fan favorite. He rushed for 939 yards as a rookie, demonstrating his capabilities. He even capped the 2024 season with a 176-yard rushing performance when the Texans rested starters.
Why the Release?
Despite the initial success, Pierce struggled to maintain his role within the team. In 2025, even with Joe Mixon's absence due to injury, Pierce found himself behind rookie Woody Marks, veteran Nick Chubb, and pass-catching specialist Dare Ogunbowale on the depth chart. He only appeared in four games in 2025, rushing for a mere 26 yards on 10 carries.
What's Next for Pierce?
Now that Pierce has been waived, he becomes an interesting player on the waiver wire. Teams looking for a potential boost to their running game might consider claiming him. His past performances indicate that he has the talent to contribute, and a change of scenery could be exactly what he needs to revitalize his career.
Pierce, 25, was a fourth-round pick by the Texans in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was in the final year of his $4,475,432 rookie contract, which had an average annual value of $1,118,858. It remains to be seen where he will continue his NFL journey.