Who Should I Start? Jerome Ford or Woody Marks

Monday, July 28, 4:43 PM

Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford (undisclosed) returned to practice in a limited capacity on Monday, according to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi. Oyefusi reports that Ford completed individual drills and then worked with a trainer on a separate field during the team portions of Cleveland's practice. The team never disclosed what caused Ford to miss time, but it appears as though he's close to returning to full strength. The fourth-year back is competing with rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson for touches, but Judkins remains away from the team after being arrested on domestic violence charges. In 14 games last season, Ford recorded 790 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns. Particularly if Judkins misses significant time, Ford has a chance to seize the RB1 role in Cleveland and put up the best numbers of his career.

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.