The Houston Texans entered the offseason determined to address one of the biggest weaknesses that has prevented them from making a deeper postseason run. Despite reaching the playoffs in recent years, Houston has consistently struggled to establish a reliable ground game, prompting the front office to make significant changes to its backfield.
In an effort to improve that area, the Texans acquired veteran running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions. Known for his physical running style and consistency between the tackles, Montgomery is expected to provide stability on early downs while giving Houston the dependable rushing presence it has lacked.
The move naturally raised questions about the future of second-year running back Woody Marks, who handled much of the workload during his rookie campaign. While Montgomery is expected to assume a leading role, the Texans have made it clear they still envision Marks as an important contributor within the offense.
Running backs coach and assistant head coach Danny Barrett recently addressed those expectations, emphasizing that Marks’ responsibilities may evolve rather than diminish. His comments offered insight into how Houston plans to utilize both backs as part of a revamped rushing attack.
1. Texans Outline Marks’ Responsibilities
Barrett expressed confidence that Marks understands the adjustments that come with the arrival of Montgomery and believes the young running back is prepared to embrace his evolving role.
According to Barrett, Marks earned valuable experience during his rookie season after gradually working his way into the offense. The coaching staff intentionally introduced him at a measured pace, allowing him to become more comfortable with the speed and complexity of the professional game.
As the season progressed, Marks’ confidence grew alongside his understanding of the offense. Barrett noted that the second-year back now plays with greater decisiveness and speed, qualities the coaching staff expects to continue developing this season.
Rather than serving as the team’s primary ball carrier, Marks is expected to contribute in several important situations. Barrett highlighted third-down responsibilities, passing-game involvement, and special teams duties, including kickoff returns, as key areas where the young running back can make an impact.
2. Montgomery Brings Needed Experience
The acquisition of Montgomery represents a significant investment in improving Houston’s rushing attack after several seasons of inconsistency on the ground.
Throughout his NFL career, Montgomery has established himself as one of the league’s more dependable power runners. His ability to gain tough yardage, protect the football, and handle a heavy workload makes him a logical choice to lead Houston’s early-down rushing efforts.
His arrival also allows the Texans to better define responsibilities within the backfield. Instead of relying heavily on a younger player still developing his game, Houston can distribute touches according to each player’s strengths.
Montgomery’s physical running style complements Marks’ versatility, giving the offense two backs with different skill sets. That combination could create more balance while allowing offensive coaches to tailor personnel packages to specific game situations.
3. Backfield Duo Could Boost Texans
Marks showed encouraging signs during his rookie season despite operating behind an offensive line that struggled to consistently create running lanes. He appeared in 16 games and finished with 703 rushing yards and two touchdowns, producing respectable numbers under difficult circumstances.
Houston believes improvements along the offensive line, combined with another year of experience, should allow Marks to become an even more productive player. His increased familiarity with the offensive system is expected to enhance his effectiveness as both a runner and receiver.
The Texans also hope Montgomery’s presence will reduce some of the pressure placed on Marks. With the veteran handling many of the demanding early-down carries, the younger back can focus on situations where his speed, versatility, and receiving ability provide the greatest value.
After falling short of championship expectations in each of the past three seasons, Houston views its reshaped backfield as an important step toward building a more complete offense. If Montgomery and Marks successfully complement one another, the Texans could finally develop the balanced rushing attack needed to support a deeper playoff run.