Who Should I Start? Blake Corum or Woody Marks

Wednesday, June 4, 12:46 PM

Los Angeles Rams running back Blake Corum (forearm) has been taking part in voluntary organized team activities this offseason after fracturing his forearm in the Week 18 regular-season finale. It's a good sign that Corum will be ready for the start of his second NFL season as the primary backup to Kyren Williams. After being taken in the third round (83rd overall) last year out of Michigan, the 24-year-old had a minimal role behind the workhorse Williams, carrying the ball only 58 times for 207 yards while adding seven catches on eight targets for 58 yards. He did not find the end zone at all. Heading into Year 2, Corum is competing with rookie fourth-rounder Jarquez Hunter for backup duties in L.A. Corum's quiet rookie season wasn't what fantasy managers in dynasty/keeper leagues wanted to see, and it might take an injury to Williams for him to see a bigger role in his sophomore season.

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.