Texans RB playing against Jets today?

WITH Houston Texans within a short week, current injured players could be sidelined again if they are not fully healed.

That appears to be the case for third-year running back Dameon Pierce, who was limited after his breakout performance in Week 6 on the road against the New England Patriots.

Will Pierce suit up for Thursday Night Football when the Texans take on New York Jets? Here’s what happened and his current status will be known Thursday morning.

Dameon Pierce injury update

Although Pierce played in Sunday’s win over the Indianapolis Colts, he was limited to just one carry for four yards. Against the Green Bay Packers in Week 7, he rushed for just four yards on two attempts.

The Texans ruled Pierce out because of a groin issue during practice this week. He won’t play in Thursday’s game against the AFC East franchise, meaning it will be more of a Joe Mixon show.

This is the second time this season that Pierce has dealt with a chronic lower-body issue. Following a Week 1 road win over the Colts, the former Texans starter missed four games with a hamstring injury before returning against New England.

How long will it be Dameon Pierce go out?

Lower body injuries are difficult to define because they are all based on body movement. Pierce could return next Sunday against the Detroit Lions if he is healthy and starts practice on Monday.

He could also end up on injured reserve if the situation worsens, causing him to miss at least the next four games.

Dameon Pierce statistics

Pierce has shown the potential to be a worthy No. 2 behind Mixon this season. He rushed for 98 yards in four games, although 54 came for a fourth-quarter touchdown against New England.

Pierce is averaging 7.0 yards per attempt on 14 carries.

Texans RB depth chart

Without Pierce, Mixon will likely see at least 90% of the reps. The Texans ran 29 rushing plays last week and Mixon recorded 25 carries. He has been the backbone of the offense since returning from injury in Week 6.

Houston also recently added running back JJ Taylor to the active roster to replace Stefon Diggs, who suffered a season-ending torn ACL in Sunday’s win over the Colts. Here are the rest of the running backs on the active roster:

• Joe Mixon
• Dare Ogunbowale
• JJ Taylor

Ogunbowale changes pace frequently while at third and should see action in the passing game. He helped Houston to a 24–20 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 4 with his 1-yard touchdown reception with 18 seconds left.

Kickoff at MetLife Stadium is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. CT.