The Houston Texans are quickly turning into a hub for USC alumni. After winning the AFC South two years in a row, the team has added another weapon for quarterback C.J. Stroud—this time from the Trojans’ ranks.
Running back Woody Marks, who shined at USC after transferring from Mississippi State, was selected by Houston with the 116th pick in the fourth round. Known for his dual-threat abilities, Marks brings impressive versatility to the Texans. Over his college career, he tallied 261 catches, with 143 of those coming in his first two years at Mississippi State. He also broke out as a rusher at USC, logging his first 1,000-yard season with 1,133 yards and nine touchdowns—both career highs.
Marks enters a Texans running game that ranked 15th in the league in total yards, yards per carry, and rushing touchdowns last season. He’ll share the backfield with veteran Joe Mixon, who rushed for 1,016 yards and scored 11 touchdowns in 2024.
He’s not the only former Trojan joining Houston. The Texans selected USC defensive back Jaylin Smith in the third round, adding to a secondary that already includes former USC standout Calen Bullock. With the addition of Marks, Houston now boasts three USC products on its roster—a nod to their successful past with linebacker Brian Cushing, who starred for the team from 2009 to 2017.
Coming off a playoff run that ended in the AFC Divisional Round against the eventual conference champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, the Texans are adding more firepower. Marks brings a scoring threat on both the ground and through the air, with 22 rushing and 27 receiving touchdowns during his college career.
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