Texans Trade Up to Select USC RB Woody Marks in 2025 Draft

Houston, TX — The Houston Texans made a strategic move in the 2025 NFL Draft by trading their 179th pick and a third-round selection in 2026 to the Miami Dolphins for the 116th and 224th picks in 2025. With the newly acquired 116th pick, the Texans selected running back Woody Marks from the University of Southern California.

Marks, 24, had a standout season at USC after transferring from Mississippi State, where he played for four years. In 2024, he rushed for 1,133 yards and scored nine rushing touchdowns while also catching 47 passes for 321 yards. His performance in college established him as a valuable asset, especially in the passing game.

Texans General Manager Nick Caserio described the trade as an aggressive move, continuing the trend of active big moves during the draft. This marks Caserio’s sixth trade in this year’s draft, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the team.

“Woody is a versatile player who can excel in multiple roles,” said Caserio. “His experience at USC and Mississippi State makes him a great fit for our offense.”

During his college career, Marks demonstrated his passing-catching ability, accumulating 261 catches for 1,544 yards and five touchdowns. His solid performance positions him potentially as the No. 2 running back behind veteran Joe Mixon in Houston’s lineup.

Coaches are excited about Marks’s capability to enhance the Texans’ backfield, which has been seeking depth behind their starters. Marks’s college stats indicate he could also contribute crucially to the team’s passing game, providing support for quarterback C.J. Stroud.

As the draft progresses, the Texans still hold several picks that could be used to further bolster their roster. Marks’s addition highlights the team’s focus on acquiring dynamic players who can make an immediate impact.