Woody Marks’ Second Season as a Versatile Weapon for Texans

Rookie Impact and Statistical Snapshot

As a rookie, Woody Marks led the Texans in rushing attempts with 196 carries and amassed 703 yards on the ground. He appeared in all 16 games, collecting 39 first‑down runs and two touchdowns. The longest run he recorded that season was only 23 yards, highlighting the team’s limited ground attack at the time. Marks also played 52 percent of the snaps, showing coaches trusted his involvement early in his career.

Shift to a Three‑Down Back Role

Houston bolstered its backfield in the offseason by acquiring David Montgomery, describing him as a “three‑down back.” This acquisition prompted the Texans to recalibrate Marks’s responsibilities, moving him toward a more multifaceted role. The coaching staff now envisions Marks contributing beyond traditional rushing, leveraging his speed and receiving skills. As a result, his workload will be spread across standard downs, third‑down situations, and special‑team duties.

What the Coaching Staff Plans for Marks

Running backs coach and assistant head coach Danny Barrett emphasized that Marks will see “lots of opportunities” this year. Barrett noted that Marks’s confidence is at an “all‑time high” and that his role will include third‑down carries, special‑team assignments, and kickoff returns. The coach also highlighted that Marks’s participation will expand in the passing game, building on the progress made in Year 1. The goal is to keep Marks’s development accelerating as the season approaches.

Marks’ Receiving Production and Outlook

Marks proved he could be more than a pure runner by catching 24 passes for 208 yards and three touchdowns last season, capped by a 50‑yard catch‑and‑run. His receiving jersey number and route work drew praise from offensive coordinator Nick Caley, who is “doing a great job” teaching the route tree. The Texans intend to use Marks extensively on multiple passing routes, expecting him to become a reliable target in the offense.

Quotes from the Locker Room

Marks told Aaron Wilson that he appreciates the variety of routes Caley is teaching him, calling it a chance to “get outside and just using me as he can.” He added that the expanded role and increased confidence are driving his motivation heading into Year 2. The sentiment from both coach and player suggests Marks is ready to take on a larger, more diversified workload for the Texans.