Kansas City’s Week 12 loss exposed shocking flaws in its rushing attack, forcing a decisive practice squad shake-up for the Chiefs.QQ
The Kansas City Chiefs are getting some much-needed help in the backfield.
The Kansas City Chiefs didn’t waste any time improving their backfield when the opportunity presented itself.
The Chiefs are set to sign former Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce to the practice squad, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Pierce was released late last week and cleared waivers on Friday. The 25-year-old isn’t just a perfect fit down the stretch, given the team’s need for depth amidst Isiah Pacheco’s knee injury, but he could be part of a long-term solution for Kansas City. Brashard Smith is the lone running back under contract for the Chiefs beyond the 2025 NFL season.
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In four seasons with the Texans, Pierce recorded 460 touches for over 1900 yards and nine touchdowns. At 5-foot-11 and 218 pounds, his playstyle is reminiscent of former Chiefs RB Spencer Ware. He’s built low to the ground, a solid pass-catcher, and a bruising downhill runner.
Pierce didn’t quite fit the outside-zone blocking scheme Houston has adopted under its latest offensive coordinator. He’s better-suited for a gap/power attack when working under center, and does a nice job running behind pulling blockers on counter runs. If the coaching staff in Kansas City plays to his strengths, this could be a homerun get. If they don’t, they might find themselves in the same situation as the Texans.
The Chiefs found something out about their running game in Week 12 vs. Colts
The Chiefs ran the ball 41 times in Week 12 against the Colts, despite never leading in regulation. They had 36 carries for running backs, with Kareem Hunt getting a Lion’s share of the work with 30 carries for 104 yards and a rushing touchdown. The reality is that this current Chiefs offense needs a balanced attack, even if they’re fighting their way out of a point deficit. Another fact of the situation is that Kareem Hunt is 30 years old, Isiah Pacheco is injured, Brashard Smith is built like a wide receiver, and Elijah Mitchell isn’t in the circle of trust. They’re going to need another body at some point this season beyond practice squad running backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire or Carson Steele. Pierce gives them another option if things get any dicier in the running back room this season. If things go well, he could be a part of a future that includes Smith and some players who probably aren’t on the team yet.
