Joe Mixon Injury Puts Woody Marks in Spotlight for Texans RB1 Role

The Houston Texans’ backfield plans have been thrown into disarray just weeks before the new NFL season kicks off. Veteran running back Joe Mixon, a cornerstone of their offensive ambitions, has been officially placed on the reserve/non-football injury list and is expected to miss at least the first four weeks of the regular season due to an ankle injury.

This significant development, first reported by ESPN, immediately elevates the competition for the starting role and places a spotlight on rookie Woody Marks, whose impressive preseason performance has suddenly become critically important for the team’s early-season prospects.

How Does a Joe Mixon Injury Impact the Houston Texans’ Backfield?

The loss of a proven workhorse like Mixon creates a substantial void. His experience and production were seen as vital for balancing the offense and supporting young quarterback C.J. Stroud. Without him, the Texans must now rely on a combination of other veterans and unproven rookies to carry the load, a scenario that introduces both risk and opportunity.

The current roster features veterans Nick Chubb, Dameon Pierce, and Dare Ogunbowale. However, their preseason performances have not solidified confidence, making the coaching staff’s decision more challenging. This uncertainty is what has rapidly accelerated the rise of rookie Woody Marks on the depth chart. The situation demands a quick and effective solution to maintain the team’s offensive momentum from last year.

Woody Marks Emerges as the Leading Contender

Amidst the uncertainty, sixth-round draft pick Woody Marks has seized his opportunity. The running back out of Mississippi State distinguished himself throughout the preseason, demonstrating a blend of vision, power, and reliability that caught the coaching staff’s attention.

Across three preseason games, Marks efficiently turned 16 carries into 63 yards and a touchdown, adding four receptions for 20 yards. While the stats may not be eye-popping, his consistency and ball security compared favorably to his peers. Rookies Jawhar Jordan and British Brooks also saw action, but Marks’ all-around performance and lack of critical errors, such as fumbles, have given him a clear edge. His play has generated palpable buzz and calls from fans and analysts alike for him to get the starting nod.

A New Era Begins in Houston’s Backfield

The Texans’ opening game against the Los Angeles Rams on September 7th is now poised to be a debutante ball for their new-look rushing attack. While the veterans on the roster will still have roles to play, the trajectory points toward Woody Marks receiving the bulk of the early-down work. This injury, while unfortunate for Mixon, has fast-tracked the evaluation process for the Texans’ future at the running back position.

The unexpected absence of Joe Mixon has thrust the Houston Texans into an early-season test of their depth, turning a preseason competition into a regular-season reality with rookie Woody Marks at the forefront. His ability to handle the pressure will be one of the most compelling storylines to watch as the NFL season begins.

Must Know

What is Joe Mixon’s injury?
Joe Mixon is suffering from an ankle injury that occurred during the offseason. The injury is significant enough to require him to be placed on the reserve/non-football injury list, mandating a minimum absence of four games.

How long will Joe Mixon be out?
Reports indicate Joe Mixon is expected to be sidelined for at least the first four weeks of the NFL regular season. His eligibility to return would be ahead of Week 5, pending a successful recovery.

Who will start for the Texans at running back in Week 1?
With Mixon out, rookie Woody Marks is currently the favorite to start. His strong preseason performance has given him a clear advantage over other veterans and rookies on the Texans’ roster.

Where was Woody Marks drafted?
Woody Marks was selected by the Houston Texans in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Mississippi State.

What did Woody Marks do in the preseason?
Marks had 16 carries for 63 yards and one touchdown across three preseason games. He also added four receptions for 20 yards, showcasing his potential as a dual-threat option.