If you were hoping to fire up the rookie sensation this week, you might want to grab a coffee and sit down. Woody Marks, who has been dealing with a nagging ankle issue, is officially trending toward the bench for Sunday’s showdown against the Raiders.
The Rollercoaster Week For Marks
Let’s be honest, this week has been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster for anyone tracking the Texans’ injury report. Marks got banged up in last week’s win over the Cardinals, and while he managed a limited practice session, things were looking murky. Then, late Saturday, reports surfaced suggesting the rookie was planning to grit his teeth and play. Optimism was high!
But, as it often goes in the NFL, the ankle apparently had other plans. According to the latest buzz from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, it is looking highly unlikely that Marks suits up. We won’t get the official word until the inactive list drops 90 minutes before that 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.
Next Man Up: Who To Trust?
So, if Marks is indeed watching from the sidelines in sweatpants, who carries the rock for Houston? Enter the veteran, Nick Chubb. He’s dealing with some bruised ribs of his own—because apparently, the entire running back room is held together by athletic tape this week—but he’s on track to play. If Chubb is active, expect him to handle the heavy lifting on early downs. He’s seen these battles before, and while he might not have the same burst he did five years ago, he knows how to find the end zone.
But wait, there’s a wild card here. Keep your eyes on Jawhar Jordan. The guy was electric last week against Arizona, racking up 118 total yards on 17 touches. If Chubb is limited or the Raiders’ defense proves soft against speed, Jordan could see an expanded role.
What This Means for Sunday
Ultimately, losing Marks is a blow to the Texans‘ offense, but it’s not a death sentence. For fantasy purposes, though, it’s a headache. If you have Marks, get him out of your lineup unless we hear a shocking reversal. If you have Chubb, he’s a solid volume-based start. And if you’re feeling dangerous? Jordan might just save your week.
