Houston Texans' Rookie Running Back Uncertain for Week 15

The Houston Texans are coming off one of the most disappointing losses of their 1-11-1 season, and they may have yet another bitter pill to swallow as they prepare for Week 15. According to head coach Lovie Smith, running back Dameon Pierce suffered an ankle injury in the team's 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys and is unlikely to be available for this week's matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Lovie Smith on Dameon Pierce, didn't have a detailed update: 'It would take an awful lot for him not to play." Pierce has an ankle injury, is undergoing an MRI today
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 12, 2022

Pierce carried the ball 22 times for 78 yards and one touchdown on Sunday. He was noticeably absent on a Texans' late fourth-quarter drive in which they were stuffed at the goal line and turned the ball over on downs. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott promptly marched his team 98 yards for the game-winning score.

Pierce has been arguably the lone bright spot for a miserable Texans offense in yet another lost season. He was squarely in the hunt for Offensive Rookie of the Year before today's news. He has rushed for an impressive 939 yards at a solid 4.3 yards per attempt in 13 appearances this season while adding another 165 yards through the air. He leads all rookies in yards from scrimmage.

Pierce joined the Texans as their 107th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He totalled 1806 rushing yards and 422 receiving yards in 48 appearances for the Florida Gators. At this rate, he appears to be a better pro than a college player.