Who Should I Start? Braelon Allen or Woody Marks

Sunday, August 10, 1:59 AM

New York Jets running back Braelon Allen totaled 33 rushing yards on eight carries in his team's 30-10 win against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday. He failed to bring in his lone target. Allen drew a carry on New York's first series with the starting offense and broke free for a nice gain of 14 yards - the team's longest run of the day. It was presumed that he'd operate after Breece Hall, but it's noteworthy that Isaiah Davis also appeared on that drive. The first-string offense was done after just one series, but Allen and Davis split the remainder of the half until they were both relieved of their duty. The 21-year-old is likely to have trouble finding consistent production with a myriad mouths to feed in the Jets' rushing attack. However, he presents as one of the higher-end handcuffs and could be a legitimate thorn in Hall's side this season. Fantasy managers will want to pay close attention to how this backfield split shakes out over the next few weeks, as the situation is more fluid than it has been in recent seasons. The Jets will take on the Giants next Saturday in their annual preseason meeting.

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.