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Every running back in the NFL could take a few pointers from what Texans RB Dameon Pierce did
Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

In 2022, the Houston Texans had one of the best rookie running backs in the league despite having a very bad offense and team overall. To be honest, you could probably say they had one of the best running backs in the league, as Dameon Pierce finished with just under 1,000 rushing yards. 2023 was not as great of a story for the running back despite the team having much more success.

The 2023 Houston Texans had one of the best offenses in the league, but the majority of that was built through the air. Now, the back half of the season saw backup running back turned starter - Devin Singletary has some really good games. But the Texans still relied on the pass and the skill of their young stud QB C.J. Stroud rather than the run game.

Pierce's bad year basically saw him lose his starting spot. Last season was tough on him, and he has opened up about it since. But this year could be better, as he has gotten one thing out of the way that should no longer distract him.

Honestly, what Pierce has done is something every running back in the league should consider doing.

“What I have seen from Dameon [Pierce] this offseason is a guy who has put in the work," head coach DeMeco Ryans said at OTAs. "As you have mentioned, he has changed his body, he is strong, and he has been working out every day of the offseason program. Not only am I working out here, but I am also proud of Dameon for going back and finishing his degree in Florida.

"So, just the complete man working out as a football player and finishing that degree mean a lot to him. I see Dameon having a very clear headspace as we are out working, and I think that will allow him to have a really productive year this year. He has everything it takes to be a really good running back for us, and I think him and Joe [Mixon], as a one-two punch, would be very beneficial for us all.”

With the way the running back market has gotten, I think every running back, and every player, should at least consider returning to school and finishing their degree and education. The running back market is cruel right now, and the sport doesn't actually love these players, just the product they put on the field. The sport is too dangerous not to have a backup plan.

That's not to say Pierce won't be good and will continue to have a long career, but instead, he, me, or anyone else simply doesn't know what's in store for any player's future. You never know what injury you could have that could end your entire career, as we have seen it happen way too often. And that money you make will go quickly when you don't have a job.

So, it's good for Pierce to get his degree, and hopefully, other running backs and players follow in his footsteps.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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