The Houston Texans backfield underwent a significant makeover this offseason, and running back Woody Marks is embracing the change.
After carrying the load as the team's primary rusher in 2025, Marks is expected to shift into a complementary role this season following the Texans' trade for Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery. Marks recently provided an update on how he views his evolving responsibilities in offensive coordinator Nick Caley's offense.
The acquisition of Montgomery signals a clear philosophy shift for a Texans ground game that relied heavily on Marks a year ago. While Marks proved himself as a capable bell cow, the addition of a proven veteran like Montgomery gives Houston a dynamic one-two punch that offensive coordinators around the league covet.
For Marks, the transition isn't about diminished expectations. It's about winning.
"We're both going to get our opportunities," Marks said, according to Cole Thompson of Texans Wire. "I'm just focused on whatever gives this team the best chance to win."
That team-first mentality has defined Marks since he arrived in Houston. His willingness to adapt speaks volumes about the culture head coach DeMeco Ryans has cultivated in the locker room.
The trade that changed the backfield
Houston's decision to trade for Montgomery came as a surprise to many around the league. The Lions running back had been a central figure in Detroit's offense, but the Texans saw an opportunity to add a physical, downhill runner to complement Marks' more versatile skill set.
Montgomery brings a different dimension to the Texans offense. At 5-foot-11 and 224 pounds, he's a between-the-tackles bruiser who wears down defenses over the course of a game. His 2024 season in Detroit saw him rush for over 1,000 yards and score double-digit rushing touchdowns, proving he can still produce at an elite level.
The pairing creates matchup problems for opposing defenses. When Montgomery is on the field, safeties have to creep closer to the line of scrimmage, anticipating a power run. When Marks checks in, his ability to catch passes out of the backfield forces linebackers to account for him in the passing game.
Marks caught 48 passes in 2025, ranking among the top receiving backs in the league. Those numbers might dip in a timeshare, but his efficiency could actually increase with fresher legs.
What this means for the Texans offense
Nick Caley, entering his second season as offensive coordinator, now has a backfield that can attack defenses in multiple ways. The versatility allows for more creative play-calling, including two-back sets, split-back alignments, and play-action concepts that keep defenses guessing.
C.J. Stroud enters his fourth season under center, and having a reliable ground game is essential for his continued development. The Texans ranked in the middle of the pack in rushing offense last season, but the Montgomery acquisition should push them into the upper tier.
The offensive line, anchored by veterans like Trent Brown and Braden Smith, should benefit from a more physical running style. Montgomery's tendency to fall forward and gain yards after contact will make life easier for the interior linemen, who can focus on driving defenders off the ball rather than trying to reach the second level on every snap.
For Marks, his role in the passing game remains crucial. Even if his carries decrease, he's still the preferred option on third downs and in two-minute situations. His route-running ability and reliable hands make him a security blanket for Stroud, especially when the pocket collapses.
Competition and depth
The Texans don't lack depth at the position. British Brooks and Jawhar Jordan provide additional options, while Josh Pitsenberger rounds out the group. But the pecking order is clear: Montgomery leads the committee, with Marks serving as the change-of-pace complementary back.
That doesn't mean Marks won't see significant snaps. Most NFL teams rotate their running backs regularly, and the Montgomery-Marks combination offers two distinct styles that require defensive adjustments. A defense that has spent four quarters getting pounded by Montgomery might suddenly have to account for Marks catching a screen pass on the perimeter.
The workload split will likely be determined by game situation. If the Texans are protecting a lead, Montgomery's style of running out the clock and punishing defenders makes him the obvious choice. In come-from-behind scenarios, Marks' pass-catching ability gives him the edge.
Looking ahead
The Texans enter the 2026 season with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. The roster is deep at nearly every position, the coaching staff has established a winning culture, and the front office has proven willing to make aggressive moves to address weaknesses.
Adding Montgomery to a backfield that already featured a proven starter like Marks was a statement of intent. Houston isn't just trying to win the AFC South. They're building a roster capable of competing with the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills of the league.
For Marks, the adjustment period is already underway. He's spent the offseason working on his pass-protection skills and route running, anticipating how defenses will try to attack the two-back look. His preparation suggests a player fully committed to whatever role the team needs.
The reality of the NFL is that roles evolve. Players who excel in one situation often have to adapt to new circumstances. Marks handled the RB1 responsibilities admirably in 2025, but the addition of Montgomery gives the Texans something they haven't had in years: a truly balanced backfield with no obvious weakness.
As training camp approaches, the competition for snaps will take care of itself. Both Montgomery and Marks have track records that suggest they'll produce when given opportunities. The question is how Caley and Ryans deploy them.
One thing is certain: Woody Marks isn't complaining. He's a team player who understands that winning matters more than individual stats. And with the Texans positioned to make a deep playoff run, that attitude might be exactly what this team needs.