Texans Rookie Woody Marks Battling Foot Injury, Status Uncertain Ahead of Chiefs Matchup
HOUSTON - Texans rookie running back Woody Marks has been the definition of tough this season, and Sunday was no exception. After gutting through a foot injury in Houston’s gritty 20-16 win over the Colts, Marks was held out of Wednesday’s practice - a sign the team is taking a cautious approach ahead of this weekend’s road showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Marks was seen walking without a limp in the locker room on Monday, which is encouraging. But the Texans are clearly looking to manage his workload through the week, hoping to have him ready for Sunday. Given how much he's contributed to this offense, that’s a big piece to monitor.
The rookie led the team in rushing against Indianapolis, grinding out 64 yards on 19 carries. It wasn’t flashy, but it was the kind of hard-earned production that helped Houston control tempo and close out a tight game. And it came after a moment early in the game when it looked like Marks might be done for the day.
On the Texans’ second drive, Marks limped off the field and was quickly taken into the blue medical tent. Trainers evaluated him, and soon after, he was back on the sideline running under the watchful eye of head trainer Roland Ramirez. Cleared to return, Marks re-entered the game and finished strong - a testament to his resilience and competitive fire.
Asked about the injury after the game, Marks made his mindset crystal clear: “Out for the game? Oh, no, I ain’t never out for the game.
No matter what. No matter what the situation is, I ain’t never out.”
That’s the kind of mentality that’s quickly earned him the trust of head coach DeMeco Ryans.
“You see the toughness that Woody exhibits,” Ryans said. “He’s used to carrying the load.
But he did an outstanding job of just pushing through. That’s what you talk about - the injuries, the getting nicked up in the game, toughing it out, coming back, battling and wanting the football at the end of the game to close it out.”
Ryans didn’t hold back in praising Marks’ growth and impact this year, and for good reason. Through 12 games, Marks has rushed for 486 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 18 receptions for 188 yards and two more scores. He’s become a steady, reliable presence in the Texans’ backfield - and a key part of their offensive identity.
If Marks isn’t able to go Sunday, the Texans will likely turn to veteran Nick Chubb to carry the load. Chubb’s experience and physical style would give Houston a different look, but there’s no question Marks brings a dynamic element that’s tough to replicate.
The rookie’s status will be one of the top storylines to watch as the week progresses, especially with the Texans heading into a high-stakes matchup against a Chiefs team that doesn’t give up much on the ground.
Other Injury Notes
Marks wasn’t the only notable name missing from Wednesday’s practice. Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. also sat out.
Anderson had been dealing with a chest injury last week but still played the full game against the Colts. He appeared to be in good spirits Tuesday night at a community event, so his absence may be more precautionary than anything.
Starting cornerback Kamari Lassiter also didn’t practice. Lassiter played the full game Sunday, so this could be a rest day or something minor. Still, with the Chiefs’ passing attack on deck, his availability will be important.
Right tackle Trent Brown remained sidelined as well. Brown has been managing a broken finger for several weeks now, and the Texans have been rotating along the offensive line to keep him as fresh as possible.
As December football ramps up, so does the physical toll. Houston’s depth will be tested, and how they manage their key pieces - especially Marks - could go a long way in determining how far this team can go down the stretch.