The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft class features a plethora of starting-caliber running backs. As a result, some of the mid-round intriguing talents are flying under the radar. USC running back Woody Marks deserves more attention.
Marks was absolutely dominant in a 26-20 victory over Nebraska on Saturday. The Atlanta, Georgia native rushed for a season-high 146 yards via 19 attempts, averaging 7.7 yards per carry. He also added 36 receiving yards to his offensive totals.
It was an appropriate follow-up to Marks' equally impressive showing versus Washington the week prior. The Trojans standout scampered for 123 yards and a touchdown against the Huskies in a losing effort. All in all, Marks has rushed for 1,024 yards and nine touchdowns this season. He's gained 100-plus yards in six of 10 single-game performances.
Woody Marks has 168 rushing yards vs AP Ranked opponents this season, 5th most amongst P4 RBs#FightOn✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/ZBjsFuvbgv
— Arrogant Nation✌🏻 (@FightOnRusty) September 22, 2024
Marks has already become the Trojans' first 1,000-yard back since Ronald Jones II last achieved the same in 2017. USC still has two games on its regular-season schedule, UCLA and Notre Dame. Marks has established himself as the program's most impressive ball-carrier in recent memory.
Marks has also been a reliable receiving threat for quarterback Miller Moss. The versatile playmaker has totaled 43 receptions for 296 yards. Marks is also the first Trojan running back with 40 or more catches in a campaign since Buck Allen in 2014. He continues rewriting the program's recent record books.
WOODY MARKS!!!!!!!! USC TOUCHDOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/c0CWXh47zt
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthew_CFB) September 2, 2024
Marks transferred to USC ahead of this season as a redshirt senior. He spent the previous four campaigns (2020-23) at Mississippi State. Marks was a rotational weapon throughout his tenure with the Bulldogs. His highest rushing total at Mississippi State arrived in 2022 when he galloped for 582 yards. Marks was consistently involved in the offense, but he's exploded as an every-down threat since arriving in Southern California.
On tape, Marks is a high-level athlete with the straight-line speed required to generate explosive ground gains. He's produced a carry of 20-plus yards in six USC contests this campaign. Marks forces missed tackles in tight quarters or via open space, offering defenders a difficult assignment.
Marks also possesses an NFL-ready frame. He's well-proportioned, listed at a densely-built 5-foot-10 and 210 pounds. Marks could improve his contact balance and ability to punish defenders with physicality, but being nitpicked by NFL scouts for lacking a pro-ready frame won't occur.
NFL teams researching the running back class for mid-round value will identify Marks as a highly intriguing prospect. Three-down potential as an effective rusher and pass-catcher gives him a clear path to relevance at the next level. Marks projects as a potential day-one starter in an NFL backfield.
It's an excellent year to need a running back in the draft. While talents like Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton are driving the conversation, there's an abundance of mid-round backs with big-time potential. Count Marks among the higher-upside options.
