Why The Houston Texans Traded Up For 'Physical' USC Trojans Running Back Woody Marks

“Really like Woody and Woody’s able to provide. Really like him out of the backfield catching the football. Really great hands, really has that ability to make miss, make guys miss at the line of scrimmage, and the ability to play behind his pads, play physical. So like the addition of him to our running back room,” Ryans said.

While Marks is a running back first, there is a consensus that he will be utilized in the passing game with the Texans. Marks brings a versatility that the running back room was missing. While Mixon ended the 2024 season with 309 receiving yards, the addition of Marks will give Stroud another reliable player to throw to and take the load off Mixon.

“We set out to accomplish adding great football players to our team,” Ryans said. “We feel really good about this class. Fired up to get to work with these guys in a couple weeks.”

Marks spent one season with USC after transferring from Mississippi State. Marks quickly became the MVP of the Trojans' offense, rushing for 1,133 yards and nine touchdowns. Marks also had 321 receptions, only going one game without a reception. It was against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, which Marks left early due to an injury.

“It’s really exciting when you get a chance to work with young, talented guys,” Ryans said. “Put together a developmental plan for the guys and see where they can grow, who they can become.”

Marks may not be the top running back with Mixon returning in 2025, but he will work this offseason to get on the field and try to earn more playing time throughout the season. The Texans traded up for Marks, which shows they did not want to lose him to another team and will find a way to work him into the offense.

Ryans emphasized his excitement for the upcoming group of picks. The Texans made the NFL playoffs but lost in the divisional round against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the new additions, Houston is looking to make a deeper playoff run.

“Did a great job evaluating talented guys, not only about the talent but also the people. We brought in a ton of great people, also great players, and that’s the formula we like,” Ryans said. “We think these guys come in and contribute and help our team get better.”

“The mindset is definitely everything, right. If you have the mindset to work, the mindset is you really enjoy and love playing football, that fits our building,” Ryans continued.

Marks will be joining fellow USC teammate defensive back Jaylin Smith. Smith was drafted in the third round with the No. 97 overall pick. Both former Trojans will now head to Houston for their professional football careers in the NFL.

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