Who Should I Start? Bhayshul Tuten or Woody Marks

Thursday, August 14, 8:38 AM

According to Travis Holmes of Big Cat Country, Jaguars rookie running back Bhayshul Tuten appears to be pulling ahead in the RB competition during team practices. Holmes noted that Tuten "looks like a hard man to take off the field." While veteran running backs Travis Etienne Jr. and Tank Bigsby have been given more opportunities with the first team during training camp, the fourth-round rookie has been making a strong case to take the starting job. During his preseason debut, Tuten ran the ball six times nd picked up 24 yards and a rushing score. Even though he was deployed as the No. 3 running back in this game, seeing him flash more potential during practice should quickly push him up the depth chart. Last season, Etienne had a disappointing campaign, posting a career-low 3.7 YPC. For now, Tuten remains an intriguing late-round target in drafts as he could slowly take over the starting job as the season progresses.

Sunday, May 11, 9:02 PM

The Houston Texans have signed fourth-round rookie running back Woody Marks to a four-year, $5.2 million deal. Houston traded up to acquire the rights to the USC alum, sending a future third-rounder to the Miami Dolphins. Marks was a four-year player at Mississippi State and a prolific pass-catcher, particularly in his first two collegiate seasons when he totaled 143 receptions, 770 yards, and three touchdowns. He slowed down from there, but still caught at least 47 balls in two of his final three campaigns, including his last at USC. The 24-year-old isn't a burner, but don't confuse him with an early-down thumper. He's a decisive runner who trusts his blocking and possesses enough burst and shake to get to and through the second level consistently. Teammate Joe Mixon is the unquestioned RB1 in Houston, but there's little reason to think Marks couldn't challenge for backup duties. Due to his prowess as a receiver out of the backfield, seeing him garner snaps in those situations early on wouldn't be surprising.