NFL experts give mixed grade on Texans selection of USC RB Woody Marks

The Houston Texans planned on targeting a running back on Day 3. That goal has been accomplished, giving Pro Bowler Joe Mixon a true running mate for the 2025 season.

By trading away a future No. 2026 third-round pick, plus pick No. 179, the Texans moved up into Day 3 to select USC running back Woody Marks at pick No. 116. Marks should compete for the No. 2 job behind Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon.

Best known as a pass-catching back during his tenure with the Trojans and Mississippi State, Marks should provide that spark needed in the backfield toward the passing game. In four years of college football, Marks finished with 261 catches for 1,544 yards and five TDs.

Marks isn't just a solid playmaker through the passing game. As the leading rusher for the Trojans in 2025, Marks finished with 1,133 yards on 198 carries and nine rushing touchdowns. During his time with the Bulldogs, he served mostly as a secondary runner, never totaling more than 573 yards and 103 carries.

Still, a trade-up for a player who might have fallen in Round 5? And to give up a future top 100 pick just for a secondary runner? Hopefully, like his favorite move Toy Story, he can take the Texans to infinity and beyond.

Experts still aren't entirely sold on Marks being a difference-maker from the time he arrives at NRG Stadium.

Here is what some experts think about the Texans' selection of Marks.

Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAY Sports: B

Houston dealt with a slew of injuries in the backfield last season so investing in the position in a deep class has merit, especially as starter Joe Mixon enters his age-29 season. Marks is a good but not great athlete but offers a lot as a receiver out of the backfield. He's the oldest running back in the class, though.

CBS Sports' Chris Trapasso: D

Head-scratcher. Marks isn't a brutal RB, but this was a sizable overpayment on the draft pick trade chart. Not overly elusive nor speedy downfield. Average-at-best athlete. Contact balance is good, not great. Older prospect. Clear need behind Joe Mixon yet this was strange.

Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski: B

In a loaded running back class, any skill set that differentiates a prospect provides an advantage. NFL teams are always searching for specific traits that can help them win. Marks is an exceptional receiver with 261 receptions over his collegiate career, which began at Mississippi State as part of Mike Leach's Air Raid offense. A transfer to USC during his final season in college allowed Marks to become a workhorse back with a career-high 198 carries for 1,133 rushing yards.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: NFL experts give mixed grade on Texans selection of USC RB Woody Marks