As the New England Patriots approach Week 12 of the NFL season, their health situation appears to be improving, with only two significant injuries affecting the team: defensive tackle Milton Williams and running back Antonio Gibson, who has been declared out for the season.
With Gibson sidelined, the Patriots have been working to enhance their running back depth, particularly as Rhamondre Stevenson has missed the last three games due to a toe injury. Notably, prior to the trade deadline, the Patriots had their sights set on Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce as a potential addition.
Pierce, who previously started for the Texans, found himself losing playing time this season to Woody Marks and Nick Chubb. Recently released by Houston, he has cleared waivers and is now available as a free agent. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network confirmed in a post on X that Pierce is on the market.
In his rookie season of 2022, Pierce showcased his talent with 939 rushing yards and four touchdowns across 220 carries, positioning himself as a promising starter for the Texans. However, his performance in 2023 was less impactful, leading to him losing his job to Joe Mixon in 2024.
The Patriots could certainly benefit from bolstering their running back lineup, especially with Stevenson expected to return in Week 12. Signing Pierce could provide New England with a valuable option to strengthen their roster, potentially stashing him on the practice squad. However, with Stevenson’s impending return, the decision to pursue Pierce will depend on the franchise’s assessment of their depth at the position.
This situation presents an opportunity for the Patriots to enhance their team despite recent challenges, highlighting their adaptability as they navigate player health and free agency.