The Houston Texans are preparing for a Week 9 matchup as they look to build on their recent success. Woody Marks is dealing with a surprise injury that appeared on Thursday’s practice report. Will fantasy football managers have the promising rookie running back available for this week’s game against the Denver Broncos ?
Woody Marks Injury Update
Marks was fully healthy on Wednesday and did not appear on the initial injury report. The rookie running back has been one of the brightest spots of the offense throughout an up-and-down season, making his clean bill of health seem like a positive sign heading into Week 9.​
However, Marks was downgraded to limited on Thursday with a calf injury. This is definitely concerning. Mid-week additions to the injury report are usually not a good sign, particularly when a player goes from full participation to limited status between consecutive practice days.​
The most likely explanation is that Marks sustained the injury during Thursday’s practice session. The Texans’ medical staff would have pulled him from practice once they noticed any discomfort to prevent further aggravation.​
Friday’s practice report will be critical in determining Marks’ availability for Sunday. If he practices Friday at all, it will be a good sign for his chances of suiting up against Denver. If he doesn’t practice on Friday, he’s unlikely to play.​
Calf injuries can be tricky for running backs, as the position requires explosive movements and quick cuts that place significant stress on the lower leg. The Texans will likely take a cautious approach with their rookie.
Marks Fantasy Outlook
Marks has been a revelation for the Texans through the first seven games of the season. The fourth-round rookie has logged 57 carries for 214 yards along with 13 receptions for 165 yards, combining for 379 yards from scrimmage and three total touchdowns.​
He’s coming off one of the better performances of his career in the Texans’ Week 8 win against the San Francisco 49ers, logging 62 yards on the ground and 49 yards through the air on four catches. Marks has had two games with over 100 all-purpose yards this season, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and receiver.​
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The rookie has become a bigger part of the team’s offense in recent weeks, especially in the passing game, making him an RB2/Flex consideration in PPR formats. His involvement in the receiving game has been particularly valuable for fantasy managers looking for floor and upside.​
If Marks can’t go Sunday, Nick Chubb would be the lead back for Houston. However, fantasy managers shouldn’t expect to see a significant increase in Chubb’s workload. Dare Ogunbowale would step into the passing down role that Marks has occupied, while Dameon Pierce would mix in for a couple of snaps.​
The matchup against Denver presents an unfavorable opportunity for whoever handles the backfield work. The Broncos are more vulnerable on the ground than through the air, but they are stout in both departments.
For now, fantasy managers should monitor Friday’s practice report closely. Marks’ status remains uncertain, and his availability could significantly impact lineup decisions for Week 9. The hope is that this calf issue is minor and won’t keep the rookie sidelined for an important matchup.​
