Former Florida running back Dameon Pierce reacts to being named Texans' starting RB
Dameon Pierce is officially the starting running back for the Houston Texans, and he’s elated to have the honor.
Now, Pierce begins a new campaign, one where he hopes to find individual and team success throughout his rookie season. Speaking with the media, the former Florida star found the words to react to the news.
“Roll with it. You’ve got to roll with it, man, Pierce stated, speaking about enjoying the moments while preparing for battle. “Because like you said, trying to compartmentalize everything, you’re going to think about it too much.
“You get out of your routine, you get out of your mental state, you might throw yourself off. So I’m just going to take it as I go.”
Continuing, Pierce stated that he’s been learning from veterans, becoming a sponge for information throughout his time in the NFL thus far.
“I’ve learned how to take information from others and add it to my own arsenal, especially from the older guys,” said Pierce.
Those lessons he’s learned thus far will help him reach his ultimate goals, and it’s evident the former Florida star has a lot on his mind.
“All my individual goals kind of coincide with all the team goals,” added Pierce. “Want to win our division, want to beat our division rivals. We want to go far. Everyday we all have this goal, we want to win. Like you said, other than winning, I just want to play the best ball I can play.
“Stay healthy, stay happy and bring my teammates along with me, man.”
Finally, the prestige of becoming an NFL starting running back isn’t lost on Dameon Pierce, as he put everything in perspective.
“Aside from my very, very first touchdown, this has got to be up there,” Pierce stated.
More on Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans
Moreover, Pierce was PFF’s highest graded running back in 2021 with a 92.0 overall mark while leading all backs with a 93.5 rushing grade.
In his first two years with Florida, he played in 25 games as a backup, rushing for 729 yards and six touchdowns. Pierce earned the starting spot for the Gators in 2020 and led the team in rushing with 503 yards and four touchdowns.
In 2021, he only started one game, but led the team in rushing touchdowns with 13 on the ground. He also scored another three touchdowns receiving last season.
Now, he’ll be ready to make highlight reel plays for the Texans in the NFL, proving he’s capable of handling the pressure.