Who Should I Start? Cordarrelle Patterson or Woody Marks

Sunday, December 22, 8:28 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson converted his lone target into a 12-yard touchdown catch during Saturday's Week 16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Patterson touched the ball just once on offense this week, but he made the most of it as he withstood contact from a defender and held on to the football for six points. The 33-year-old continues to have a steady depth role in Pittsburgh, registering a total of 132 rushing yards, 80 receiving yards, and one touchdown this year. He's off the fantasy radar in most leagues.

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.