Who Should I Start? Devin Neal or Woody Marks

Tuesday, August 5, 5:31 PM

New Orleans Saints rookie running back Devin Neal (hamstring) will miss a few weeks due to a hamstring injury, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football. It's the worst possible time for a rookie to have to sit out, and it means that Neal will miss the preseason opener this Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers and most likely Week 2 of the preseason against the Denver Broncos. The 21-year-old is attempting to win a depth role heading into his first year in the NFL behind starter Alvin Kamara. The Saints plans to hold Kamara out of Sunday's preseason contest, so it will be Kendre Miller, Cam Akers and Clyde Edwards-Helaire splitting up the touches. For the 2025 season, Neal should strictly be considered a dynasty/keeper stash.

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.