Bernard Pierce's Instant Fantasy Reaction After Preseason Performance vs. 49ers

It didn’t take Bernard Pierce very long in the Baltimore Ravens' first preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers to make his presence felt.

Pierce scored from two yards out on the team’s opening possession and also mixed in a seven-yard rush on that march down the field. The fact that he was already playing with the first unit could certainly have been some foreshadowing for the upcoming season.

Ray Rice was suspended for the first two games this offseason, which means Pierce has the opportunity to secure a significant role in the offense for the entire year with impressive performances.

Gail Burton/Associated Press

Pierce discussed his role, via Mark Maske of The Washington Post: “I’ve never looked at myself as a No. 2 back or a backup. If my number is called, I’m gonna perform. I’m gonna show up.”

Fantasy owners who already have him or who plan on drafting him should certainly keep an eye on his preseason production. If nothing else, it will be a solid indicator of how many carries he will get with the first team and his role at the goal line (he already scored from there once). 

Rotoworld had some more good news from a fantasy perspective when it comes to Pierce:

It certainly carried over early in the preseason.

Pierce finished the day with 37 rushing yards and a touchdown, although he was fortunate enough to recover his fumble. Fantasy owners certainly don't want to see him put the ball on the ground too often.