Who Should I Start? Roschon Johnson or Woody Marks

Thursday, August 7, 4:04 PM

Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson (foot) was held out of Thursday's practice with a foot injury, according to the Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs. It's unfortunate news for the former Texas Longhorn, as he's reportedly been the primary short-yardage and goal-line option throughout camp for Chicago. Backfield mate D'Andre Swift is slated to handle most of the backfield work for the Bears, although it isn't unlikely that head coach Ben Johnson might choose to deploy a similar sort of committee as he did during his time in Detroit. Injuries have limited Johnson throughout his first two seasons, and now he's in danger of missing Sunday's meeting with the visiting Miami Dolphins. Rookie rusher Kyle Monangai and sixth-year pro Travis Homer will see an uptick in snaps if that's the case. Johnson is currently being selected just outside the top 175 in drafts.

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.