Breaking News: Denver Broncos Advised to Pursue Trade for Texans’ Elite 1,000-Yard Performer
In Week 3, the Denver Broncos discovered an effective strategy against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, characterized by aggressive early playcalling that prominently featured rookie quarterback Bo Nix, followed by a reliance on the running game as the game progressed.
The statistics indicate a change in running back performance, with Tyler Badie outpacing starter Javonte Williams, recording 70 yards compared to Williams’ 12 yards. Despite this, Williams played the majority of snaps at the position, suggesting the Broncos may need to seek improvement.
According to Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department, a trade with the Houston Texans could be beneficial. They noted, “Bo Nix has faced challenges early this season, which is understandable. However, the stagnant running game also deserves some blame. Javonte Williams has not appeared explosive, and Audric Estime is on injured reserve. Jaleel McLaughlin does not fit the mold of a traditional power runner,” the scouts reported on September 23.
With the free-agent market largely depleted, a trade might be the only option to enhance the backfield. Although Dameon Pierce is recovering from a hamstring injury, ESPN’s Dan Graziano mentioned that Cam Akers could take on a significant role in light of Joe Mixon’s absence.
Nix had a strong performance in Week 3, but the Broncos highlighted the importance of a dependable running game to support their rookie quarterback. This makes it worthwhile for them to consider exploring their options.
Dameon Pierce’s Transition from Texans Starter to Backup Could Facilitate a Broncos Trade
Pierce, a fourth-round pick by the Texans in the 2022 draft, had an impressive rookie season, rushing for 939 yards (4.3 yards per carry) and scoring four touchdowns. He also contributed 165 receiving yards and an additional touchdown, surpassing 1,000 total yards. However, in his second season, he experienced a decline, finishing with 416 rushing yards at a 2.9-yard average and two touchdowns. He did add over 100 yards on 13 receptions but found himself in a backup role after the Texans signed Mixon in free agency during the 2024 offseason.
Pierce missed the last two games of the Texans’ season a victory and a defeat due to a “mild” hamstring injury, as reported by KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson, who noted that Pierce is nearing a return.
Wilson stated, “Akers took the first-team snaps on Wednesday and Thursday while Pierce was sidelined with a mild strained hamstring that kept him out of the Chicago game. He is regarded as close to returning but is not quite there, according to a league source.”
Given his injury history, Pierce could be a cost-effective trade target, although the Broncos are not in dire need of additional players. Williams played 35 snaps compared to Badie’s 13, yet it was Badie who had the most rushing attempts with nine carries. Williams had five carries and four receptions, while Badie did not catch any passes.
Sean Payton Discusses Broncos RB Usage
A trade may not be part of the Broncos’ strategy. Badie, standing at 5-foot-8 and weighing 197 pounds, is compact, while Williams, at 5-foot-10 and over 220 pounds, is more of a primary back. Payton expressed his intention to reward Badie for his solid practice performance.
“I find it easier to incorporate two backs into a rotation right, wrong, or indifferent,” Payton told reporters on September 22. “It’s challenging with three. It’s tough to feed three backs, and he had been practicing well. There were several plays specifically designed for him, and he ran well, so he got additional opportunities. We’ll continue to work on that combination, and I’m pleased with our running game.”
This suggests that the Broncos may be content with their current group of running backs. Estime, who is also a powerful early-down runner, is currently out with an ankle injury. Acquiring Pierce through a trade could provide proven production that would benefit the Broncos.
