Who Should I Start? Brashard Smith or Woody Marks

Thursday, August 7, 8:16 PM

Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Brashard Smith (finger) suffered a finger injury in training camp practice on Thursday and left early, according to Chiefs beat writer Matt McMullen. It is unknown if Smith's injury is serious, but it could keep him from taking part in the preseason opener on Saturday against the Arizona Cardinals. If the 22-year-old is healthy going into his first NFL season, he figures to be the RB4, at best, for the Chiefs, behind Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell. The SMU product is a converted receiver that can be ignored in all redraft fantasy formats this fall. In his first year in the NFL, the speedy pass-catching back will most likely make his biggest impact on special teams, potentially as a kick returner.

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.