BREAKING: With the 116th Pick of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans Select USC RB Woody Marks

Detroit, MI — The Houston Texans have made a major move at the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting USC running back Woody Marks with the 116th overall pick.
This pick, made early in the fourth round, has Texans fans buzzing with excitement — and for good reason. Marks has been one of college football’s most dynamic and consistent playmakers over the past few seasons.

What does this pick mean for the Texans’ future? And how might Woody Marks fit into their evolving offense?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this impactful draft decision.

Who Is Woody Marks?

Woody Marks, the standout running back from the University of Southern California, burst onto the national scene thanks to his explosive play style and versatility.
Standing at 5’10” and weighing 205 pounds, Marks combines agility, vision, and breakaway speed to terrorize opposing defenses.

Throughout his college career, Marks showcased:

• Over 3,000 career rushing yards

• Multiple 1,000+ yard rushing seasons

• Exceptional pass-catching ability out of the backfield

• Top-tier vision and patience, allowing blocks to develop before bursting through holes

NFL scouts praised his football IQ, leadership qualities, and work ethic — making him an attractive prospect for teams seeking both on-field production and locker room leadership.

Texans’ Draft Strategy: Why Woody Marks?

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, it was clear that the Houston Texans were looking to bolster their offense.
Despite improvements under head coach DeMeco Ryans, the Texans’ running game needed more depth, explosiveness, and consistency.

By selecting Woody Marks, the Texans are:

• Adding a three-down back who can contribute immediately

• Creating competition in the backfield, pushing current starters to elevate their game

• Providing young QB development support by adding a strong check-down option

GM Nick Caserio said in a brief interview:

“Woody Marks is a tough, dynamic player who can do a lot of things for us. We’re thrilled to add his talent and character to our locker room.“

This pick reflects the Texans’ broader strategy of surrounding their young core with playmakers who can grow together.

How Woody Marks Fits into the Texans’ Offense

The Texans’ offensive scheme under coordinator Bobby Slowik is built around versatility, play-action, and quick decision-making — all of which play to Woody Marks’ strengths.

Marks offers:

• Dynamic run-pass flexibility: He can line up in multiple formations, including shotgun, pistol, and traditional sets.

• Third-down reliability: With excellent hands and pass-protection skills, Marks can stay on the field in crucial situations.

• Home-run potential: His ability to break big plays gives the Texans an exciting weapon who can change games in an instant.

Pairing Marks with the Texans’ existing offensive weapons — including rising quarterback C.J. Stroud and standout receivers like Tank Dell — could unlock a new level of explosiveness for Houston in 2025 and beyond.

College Career Highlights

At USC, Woody Marks built a resume that made him one of the most talked-about running backs in this year’s draft:

• 2024 First-Team All-Pac-12 selection

• Career-high 1,487 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in his final season

• Over 500 receiving yards as a senior, demonstrating his all-around skillset

• Zero fumbles in his final two seasons, highlighting ball security

Coaches often praised his “team-first” mentality, toughness, and dedication to improving every offseason.

USC head coach Lincoln Riley once said:

“If you need a guy who can carry your offense when the lights are brightest, Woody Marks is that guy.“

Fan Reactions: Texans Nation Excited

Minutes after the pick was announced, Texans fans lit up social media:

• @H-TownDiehards: “Woody Marks was a STEAL at 116! Can’t believe he fell that far. Great pick, Texans!”

• @TexansFanatic: “This backfield is about to be dangerous. Welcome to Houston, Woody!”

• @NextUpHouston: “Marks + Stroud + Dell = Championship core loading. Let’s get it!”

The general consensus? Fans are thrilled with the selection, believing that Marks brings immediate impact potential at tremendous value for a fourth-round pick.

Analyst Grades: Texans Score High with Marks

Early draft grades from major analysts show the Texans making a smart, calculated move:

• ESPN: B+

• NFL Network: A-

• Bleacher Report: B+

• Pro Football Focus: A

Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah said:
“Marks was one of my favorite Day 3 prospects. He has starter traits and should carve out a role early. Great job by Houston getting him here.”

Given his skill set and readiness, don’t be surprised if Marks quickly moves up the Texans’ depth chart.

What’s Next for Woody Marks and the Texans?

With rookie minicamp approaching, Woody Marks will soon suit up in Houston colors for the first time.
Expect the Texans’ coaching staff to:

• Integrate Marks into both the running back and special teams units

• Utilize his receiving skills heavily in training camp

• Give him early preseason reps to accelerate his NFL adjustment

If he picks up the playbook quickly — which his football IQ suggests he will — Marks could be a major contributor as early as Week 1.

Conclusion

The Houston Texans made a bold, savvy move by selecting Woody Marks with the 116th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Adding a player with his versatility, character, and explosiveness gives the Texans a dynamic weapon who can contribute immediately — and potentially develop into a star.

As the Texans continue building toward sustained success, Woody Marks looks like a perfect piece for the puzzle.

Welcome to Houston, Woody — the future looks bright!