Should the Texans select Woody Marks in the NFL Draft?
A key need for the Houston Texans this offseason is at running back. However, it’s not a big enough priority for them to address in the first few rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, as they have much bigger fish to fry (offensive line). Because of this, it’s vital that they find a mid-round gem that can be a complement to Woody Marks. Fortunately for them, a perfect fit awaits with Washington’s Jonah Coleman.
Woody Marks had an exceptional rookie season with 832 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he had another 227 yards and three scores as a receiver. Despite this, the room was still viewed as weak due to a lack of depth. Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb are both on the roster, but have dealt with injury and are swiftly aging. This makes it pivotal that they address the group this offseason.
Coleman will be a powerback who thrives running between the tackles in short yardage situations. This complements Marks well, as he’s the shifty, elusive player who can break off explosive plays. This duo would give the Texans a young tandem who they can help shape their offense around.
Coleman consistently runs through arm tackles. Additionally, he has amazing leg drive and can carry defenders back after contact. He has amazing vision and can efficiently read his blocks to find open space. Once he does, Coleman swiftly accelerates to his top speed and reaches the second level.
His primary role will be a power back. However, Coleman has enough elusiveness to make a defender miss in open space. This makes him significantly more explosive and gives him more potential than the prototypical power back.
Marks will take a majority of the receiving snaps, but Coleman is a formidable contributor. He had 31 receptions for 346 yards and two touchdowns through the air last season. His hands are reliable and is dangerous as a checkdown or in screens.
The biggest issue with Coleman as a prospect is his lack of explosiveness. He lacks elite top-end speed and is frequently caught by defenders in pursuit. Additionally, he has functional elusiveness in open space, but doesn’t have game-breaking potential. Luckily for the Texans, this wouldn’t be a major issue if he splits carries with Marks.
The Texans don’t have the luxury of selecting a running back early in the 2026 NFL Draft, but that shouldn’t stop them from finding a complementary piece in a later round. Fortunately, a perfect prospect pairing awaits with Jonah Coleman. He would be an amazing fit next to Woody Marks and give them a dynamic tandem for the foreseeable future.