Who Should I Start? Keaton Mitchell or Woody Marks

Tuesday, June 24, 11:08 PM

Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell suffered an ACL tear in his knee in his rookie year in 2023 but has shown the same speed and explosiveness in offseason workouts that he teased back in 2023 before his season-ending injury. Mitchell was still navigating physical and mental hurdles when he returned last November to average just 2.0 yards per carry in five regular-season games. The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec writes that the 23-year-old has looked quicker and more assertive during offseason workouts in recent weeks, which is a great development for the Ravens. Although Derrick Henry remains the RB1 workhorse in Baltimore, he's not getting any younger, and Mitchell is far too explosive not to be used in 2025. Mitchell has the most upside of the Ravens' backup RBs and would be a fine handcuff to Henry.

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.