From Atlanta to the NFL, Woody Marks attributes much of his success to his siblings’ guidance.
Jo’Quavious Dequane “Woody” Marks, born on December 29, 2000, is an American professional football running back for the Houston Texans of the National Football League (NFL).
Marks began his football journey at Carver High School in Atlanta, Georgia, where he rushed for an impressive 6,391 yards and scored 59 touchdowns, cementing his status as a high school standout.
He committed to Mississippi State University, where he played from 2020 to 2023.
As a true freshman, Marks started eight games, recording 312 rushing yards and three touchdowns, along with a school-record 60 receptions—a record for both a freshman and a running back in a season.
Over his collegiate career, he consistently contributed as both a rusher and receiver, setting the school record for career receptions by the end of his senior year.
Following his senior season, Marks transferred to the University of Southern California (USC), further showcasing his skills before entering the professional arena.
In 2025, the Houston Texans selected Marks in the fourth round (116th overall) of the NFL draft.
Known for his versatility, determination, and leadership on the field, Marks quickly became a player to watch in the NFL, fulfilling the promise of a career built on hard work and dedication.
Woody Marks Remains Close to His Siblings While Achieving Success in Professional Football
Woody Marks has an older brother and an older sister, though their specific names are not publicly disclosed.
Marks has often credited his older brother with sparking his love for football.
In a Houston Texans video titled “My Story. My Game,” Marks shared,
“I really didn’t like football until he was playing it. So, he was really my leader to my path in football.”
YouTube
The two played at the same middle and high schools, and his brother’s guidance played a crucial role in shaping Marks’ football journey.
While less is publicly known about his older sister, Marks has confirmed her presence in his life.
She, along with his brother and extended family, has been part of a close-knit support system.
Woody Marks is the youngest son of Tameka Marks, who has been a pivotal influence throughout his life.
Marks has expressed deep gratitude for his strong family ties, mentioning his close relationships with his parents, siblings, niece, and cousin.
The Marks family hails from Atlanta, Georgia, where Woody honed his skills at Carver High School before achieving national recognition and ultimately reaching the NFL.
Despite his rising fame, Woody has maintained a strong connection with his family, highlighting the importance of his siblings in both his personal and professional life.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Woody Marks’ nickname “Woody” comes from his childhood obsession with the movie Toy Story and its protagonist, Woody the Sheriff.
- Marks set a school record at Mississippi State for the most receptions by a freshman and the most receptions by a running back in a single season.
- During his college career, Marks had 60 receptions as a freshman, showing his early versatility as both a running back and receiver.
