San Francisco, California – In a surprising twist on the NFL transaction wire, running back Dameon Pierce – once a rising star for the Houston Texans – officially hit free agency after being waived by the team on November 23, 2025.
At just 25 years old, Pierce quickly drew interest from multiple teams. Yet he stunned many by making it clear he would prefer a backup role with the San Francisco 49ers over a potential starting opportunity with the Seattle Seahawks.
Pierce, who exploded for over 900 rushing yards (precisely 939) as a rookie in 2022 after being drafted in the fourth round out of Florida, has endured a difficult stretch in Houston. Following that breakout rookie campaign, he gradually lost his role due to injuries, fierce competition from young backs like Woody Marks and veteran Nick Chubb, and schematic changes in the offense under head coach DeMeco Ryans.
By 2025, Pierce’s usage had plummeted. He recorded just 26 rushing yards on 10 carries across four games and was even a healthy scratch for five straight contests.
The Texans’ decision to release Pierce was announced only hours before their Thursday Night Football matchup against the Buffalo Bills, clearing a roster spot for rookie cornerback Ajani Carter. By November 21, Pierce had cleared waivers and officially became a free agent, drawing attention from several teams looking to bolster their backfield depth.
Pierce has said he is prioritizing “stability and long-term development” in San Francisco, where head coach Kyle Shanahan is known for maximizing the careers of tough, physical running backs. Pierce reportedly believes he can learn from the 49ers’ demanding offensive system and potentially work his way into the rotation as the season heads into its most critical stretch.
This decision effectively closes a turbulent three-year chapter for Pierce in Houston. Once a rookie centerpiece averaging 72.2 rushing yards per game, he was gradually pushed into a reserve role, contributing mostly on special teams – including a memorable 98-yard kickoff return touchdown in 2023.
In total, Pierce has 1,674 career rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, but his decline has been stark: from 293 yards in 2024 down to just 26 this season.
Now in San Francisco, Pierce is hoping to reset his career. “I still have a lot to prove,” he posted on social media after the move was reported. Texans fans may feel a twinge of regret, but for the former franchise hope, this might be the fresh start he desperately needs.
The big question now: will the 49ers initially stash him on the practice squad, or will he crack the active roster rotation? And can Pierce truly shine again from a backup role? The 2025 season is far from over – and his next chapter is only just beginning.
