The Houston Texans made an additional move on Tuesday to open the door for rookie Dameon Pierce to be the lead back in Houston.
The Texans cut veteran running back Marlon Mack from the roster, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter.
By the way, @AdamSchefter got the scoop on Marlon Mack being cut. Texans are desperate for a new backup to take some of the load off rookie starter Dameon Pierce.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) August 30, 2022
The move was not surprising, as rumors had been swirling over the last couple of weeks over the likelihood of Pierce becoming No. 1 on the depth chart. But it shows the belief the Texans have in Pierce and his ability to be the bell cow.
Bettors have taken notice and money continues to pour in on Pierce to win Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Caesars reported that Pierce now accounts for the second-most money of any OROY candidate at 10.8% behind Kenny Pickett. Most of that money has rolled in August, as he continues to move up the depth chart.
Over the last month, his odds have moved from +2500 to +1300 to win OROY at Caesars.
Dameon Pierce (10.9%) has now gotten the 2nd-most money to win Offensive Rookie of the Year at @CaesarsSports, behind Kenny Pickett's 12.4%.
In August alone, Pierce is first in handle at 16.2% and third in tickets at 10.6%. This month, his OROY odds have swung from 25/1 to 13/1.
— Max Meyer (@TheMaxMeyer) August 29, 2022
Caesars isn't the only book taking a lot of money on the former Florida running back.
BetMGM has moved Pierce's odds from +2000 to +1600. He currently accounts for 5.5% of the handle and 5.4% of the tickets, according to the latest update from BetMGM on Aug. 30.
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is currently the biggest liability for Offensive Rookie of the Year at BetMGM.
Pierce ran for 564 yards and scored 13 touchdowns during his senior season at Florida. He also caught 19 passes for 216 yards and three touchdowns. Pierce was selected 107th overall in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL draft.
