The Houston Texans have a new running back in Deuce Vaughn.
“#Texans plan to sign former #Cowboys and @KStateFB running back Deuce Vaughn,” KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson reported on X on August 23.
“Vaughn (5-foot-6, 185 pounds) is a Round Rock native who’s a former #Cowboys sixth round pick who has rushed for 110 career yards on 40 runs with 10 catches for 58 yards and has also returned punts. Has played for the #Broncos and Orlando Storm.”
Vaughn, who turns 25 in November, was the 212th overall pick of thee 2023 draft.
Texans Sign Ex-Cowboys RB Deuce Vaughn
GettyDeuce Vaughn headlined a group of running backs who worked out for the Texans on Sunday.
Vaughn beat out fellow backs Blake Watson, T.J. Harden, who also tried out for spot on the Texans’ expanded 90-man roster.
Vaughn is smaller at 5-foot-6 and under 200 pounds, but his dual-threat potential and ability to contribute on special teams likely appealed to the Texans amid a slew of injuries at the running back position.
The Texans have four healthy backs now.
Vaughn joins starter David Montgomery, backup Woody Marks, and fellow training camp addition Owen Wright in the banged-up Texans backfield.
The Texans expect to get British Brooks and Jawhar Jordan back at some point. Joshua Pitsenberger is on injured reserve, putting Vaughn on the hot seat to show what he can do right out of the gate.
Vaughn could get plenty of run in the Texans’ preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers.
Vaughn was notably a teammate of Texans cornerback Tremon Smith in Denver, giving him local and team ties.
Deuce Vaughn’s Size Distracts From Versatile Skill Set
GettyDeuce Vaughn has a dynamic skill set.
At a point in their careers where players are scrutinized for everything, including things out of their control–like height–Vaughn received a noteworthy endorsement from Houston radio host and NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein.
“Vaughn’s playing style is similar to that of former NFL running back Jacquizz Rodgers, but Rodgers was much heavier than Vaughn at a similar height,” Zierlein wrote in 2023. “Despite the versatility, production and durability, teams might focus on his lack of size. However, he sees the field clearly, is fearless between the tackles, possesses quality contact balance and finds his way into the end zone as a runner and receiver.”
Zierlein continued, “Vaughn has an uphill climb ahead of him, but his history of consistent, high-end production makes the climb to success seem achievable.”
Time will tell if Vaughn can secure a spot on the Texans’ 53-man roster or practice squad.
Texans Add Former Broncos RB Behind David Montgomery Amid Local & Team Ties