Woody Marks Seizes Opportunity in Texans’ Running Back Shuffle
The Houston Texans are making noticeable adjustments to their running back lineup, and rookie Woody Marks is emerging as a key player in the mix. While veteran Nick Chubb initially carried the bulk of the workload early in the season, it was Marks who stepped into the spotlight during Week 3, showcasing his potential as the team seeks a spark in its struggling offense.
Injury Opens the Door for Marks
With Joe Mixon sidelined due to injury, an opportunity has arisen for Marks to establish himself. The rookie is positioned to capitalize on this situation, as the Texans look to revamp their ground game. Marks’ ascent in the depth chart comes at a crucial time, with the team still searching for its first win after a disappointing start to the season.
Marks’ Rise in Snap Count Reflects Growing Trust
Marks’ snap count has seen a significant increase as the season progresses. After only appearing for 11% of the offensive snaps in his debut, he moved up to 27% in Week 2, and then jumped to 48% in Week 3. This upward trajectory is not just a reflection of necessity; it also indicates the coaching staff’s growing confidence in Marks’ abilities, especially in contrast to Chubb’s performance thus far.
In his most recent outing, Marks recorded six carries for 27 yards, along with a reception for nine yards. His versatility as both a runner and a receiver could be pivotal as quarterback C.J. Stroud continues to find his footing in the NFL. The Texans are likely to lean on Marks more heavily moving forward, particularly as they aim to develop young talent amid their 0-3 start.
A Changing Backfield Landscape
As the Texans shift away from relying on Dameon Pierce, the competition appears to have narrowed down to a two-player race between Chubb and Marks. The rookie’s rapid development and adaptability suggest he is gaining ground, positioning himself as a potential starter sooner rather than later.
With the Texans eager to revamp their offensive strategy, unleashing Marks could yield benefits not only for the present but also for the team’s long-term growth. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how this dynamic plays out, particularly as both Marks and Chubb vie for a more significant role in the Texans’ backfield.
