Is Woody Marks Playing This Week — or Are the Texans Protecting Him for a Bigger Game?

The Houston Texans may be forced to think beyond just Sunday as they manage the health of one of their most important young contributors.

Rookie running back Woody Marks is officially listed as questionable for Week 16 against the Las Vegas Raiders, dealing with a lingering ankle issue that flared up during last week’s game. While Marks is expected to push to play, Houston could choose to give him additional rest with help returning in the backfield.

Veteran running back Nick Chubb is also listed as questionable but is expected to return after missing Week 15. Chubb was sidelined against the Arizona Cardinals after suffering a rib injury the week prior against the Kansas City Chiefs. He practiced fully toward the end of the week, putting him on track to rejoin the lineup.

Chubb’s return would add experience to the Texans’ offense alongside second-year back Jawhar Jordan, who delivered a career performance last Sunday. Jordan rushed for 101 yards in Houston’s 40–20 win over Arizona after taking over the workload.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans praised Jordan’s response after the game, pointing to his ability to make explosive runs and capitalize on the opportunity presented to him. Ryans credited Jordan for providing stability while the team navigated Marks’ injury situation.

Marks attempted to play through ankle pain early in the game, leaving the field multiple times during the first quarter. After evaluating the situation, Ryans decided it was best to hold the rookie out for the remainder of the contest, allowing Jordan to carry the load.

Following the game, Ryans explained that Marks could have returned, but the coaching staff felt comfortable sticking with the backs who were producing. The decision was made with an eye toward keeping Marks healthy as the season enters its most critical phase.

Houston is aiming for a third consecutive playoff appearance, and next week’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers carries major postseason implications. Ensuring Marks is fully healthy for that contest may be a higher priority than pushing him through limited snaps this Sunday.

The rookie has played a key role during the Texans’ current winning streak. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Marks has rushed for 584 yards on 167 carries with two touchdowns in 14 games, starting all six wins during the run.

While the Texans cannot afford to overlook the Raiders, resting or limiting Marks now could result in a healthier and more balanced backfield as the stakes rise.

For broader context on Houston’s playoff race, see coverage from ESPN.

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