The Houston Texans prepare for their Week 16 home matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders following their victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Woody Marks suffered an ankle injury during Sunday’s contest and did not return. Will fantasy football managers have their lead running back available this week?
Woody Marks Injury Update
Marks departed last week’s game with an ankle injury. He did not return to the contest after exiting. This was unfortunate for fantasy managers who had to watch Jawhar Jordan pop off for 118 yards on 17 touches. It would have been a huge game for Marks had he not gotten hurt.​
There is good news, though. Head coach DeMeco Ryans said Marks could have returned to the game. With the outcome not in doubt, the Texans exercised caution with their lead running back. The decision to keep Marks on the sideline was precautionary rather than due to the severity of the ankle issue.​
On Monday, Ryans described Marks as day-to-day. It sounds as if Marks avoided anything serious. The ankle injury does not appear to be a long-term concern based on the head coach’s comments.​
Marks may not practice Wednesday and will certainly not practice in full if he does. Players dealing with minor ankle injuries often follow a limited progression throughout the week. However, fantasy managers should expect Marks to play.​
The Texans will release their first official injury report on Wednesday, which should provide more clarity on Marks’ status. Based on Ryans’ positive comments, Marks appears on track to suit up for Sunday’s home game against the Raiders.
Marks’ Fantasy Outlook
Marks is in a great spot this week against a weak Raiders run defense. Las Vegas has struggled to stop opposing running backs throughout the season. The Texans are heavy home favorites and should be able to control this game with rushing and defense.​
Even if Nick Chubb returns from his rib injury, Marks already has one of the best roles in all of fantasy. He is a true three-down back and has completely taken over this backfield. Marks has established himself as the clear lead back for Houston with excellent volume and goal-line opportunities.​
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If Marks cannot go, Jordan would likely get the nod over Chubb even if the veteran is healthy. Jordan demonstrated his ability to handle a significant workload with his 118-yard performance on 17 touches last week. The second-year back impressed and is a viable option if called upon.​
Chubb is simply finished as a runner. He has nothing left to offer and likely will not be in the NFL next year. The former star running back has lost the burst and power that made him elite earlier in his career.​
Jordan is worth a speculative waiver wire add just in case. If Marks were to miss time, Jordan would step into a favorable situation with significant volume. Fantasy managers with bench space should consider adding Jordan as insurance.​
Based on all available information, fantasy managers should feel confident starting Marks as an RB2 this week. The combination of Ryans’ positive comments, the favorable matchup, and Marks’ excellent role make him a strong play for the fantasy playoffs. Managers should monitor Wednesday’s practice report for confirmation, but Marks appears on track to play.
