The Toro Times reports on how the Houston Texans rookies played in their most recent game every week. The draft class is impressive on paper, but it is time to break down what they did well and what they must improve in the Week 5 victory vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Dameon Pierce, RB
Questions about whether running back Dameon Pierce is the real deal have been thrown out and will never be brought up again. Pierce is unbelievable and has all the attributes to become a star running back in the NFL. Pierce’s incredible performance against the Jaguars is a massive reason for the Texans’ first win of the 2022 season.
Pierce had 26 rushing attempts, the most they have given him in a game all season. Houston is prioritizing Pierce as the offense’s focal point. The rushing game has looked the most dominant it has since Lamar Miller and Arian Foster were on the team. Pierce averaged about four yards per carry and earned his third touchdown this season.
The rookie running back had one of the most dominant runs we have seen out of a running back in a very long time. He rushed 20 yards, breaking 17 tackles, which is the most by any running back this season.
Pierce looks to be used more in the passing game, which is essential for a back with how the game is played today. Pierce recorded three receptions for 14 yards, which may not be enough, but it is a good indication that he will continue to be used with check downs and the odd downfield pass.
Pierce continues to amaze Texans fans and the rest of the league with his play, he is now in consideration for the Offensive Rookie of the Year. Now that the bye week is here, Pierce will be well-rested for the rest of the season to earn that award.
Derek Stingley Jr, DB
Derek Stingley continues to improve every week. He makes rookie mistakes, but he missed his entire last season at LSU after what we saw this week against the Jaguars that Stingley is producing in a big way.
Stingley struggled in coverage against Marvin Jones, giving up 54 receiving yards. Other than Jones, Stingley did solid against the rest of the field, but he will improve once he adjusts to the speed of the NFL.
Stingley tackled exceptionally well, making all five of his tackles. Stingley had an incredible game-saving touchdown in the end zone. The rookie cornerback read Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s eyes and caught a spectacular ball for his first interception of many. Stingley will only improve as he gets more games under his belt, and he should continue to make game-breaking plays this season.
Jalen Pitre, S
Jalen Pitre has looked fantastic in most games but did not perform his best this past week. His overall performance has digressed, but he wasn’t awful. As he has this season, Pitre struggled to complete his tackles this week. Pitre has the talent to be an excellent safety in the league, but missing tackles can give up massive yardage and potential scores.
Pitre will improve, but the missed tackles are a concern. He has had some incredible games this season, but he needs to improve his consistency each week. Pitre has the tools to be a good player for Houston for a very long time. There is no need to worry about his play, but he needs to continue to elevate his game.
Kenyon Green, OG
The 15th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft may have some fans scratching their heads. Kenyon Green has not lived up to expectations so far this season. Green has had one impressive outing against the Chicago Bears, but he let fans down in week four and let them down again this past week against the Jaguars.
Green struggled big time versus the pass block. If the Texans still believe in Green as a start for the long-term, he must hold up against the rush, protect quarterback Davis Mills and allow him more time to throw downfield. Green will improve this season, but we have yet to see the improvement necessary to continue as a starter long term.
Green had some solid run blocking this week. All he has produced well for the backs, but it has not been great. Green will improve as the season continues, especially since the run will be relied on more often and have Pierce as the running back.