After two impressive seasons in the NFL, C.J. Stroud is gearing up for his third year with the Houston Texans. Following back-to-back postseason berths and second-round exits, the fans’ expectations is for Stroud and Houston to build on that success.
Coming out of Ohio State, Stroud’s rookie season was remarkable considering how many doubted the Texans entering the 2023 campaign.
Stroud completed 63.9% of his passes for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns and five interceptions. In 2024, Stroud experienced moments of a sophomore slump. He completed 63.2% of his passes for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Despite the slight statistical dip, Stroud was ranked 39th on the NFL’s Top 100 list for 2025 on Monday. He was 20th one year ago.
Texans React to Stroud’s Ranking
“That’s our QB 1,” Texans posted.
They were without Nico Collins for a portion of the year. Tank Dell, who had formed a strong connection with Stroud, suffered a season-ending injury in Week 16, costing the Texans a key offensive weapon heading into postseason play.
Stroud is just 23 years old, and Houston has upgraded its offense this offseason. The Texans signed wide receiver Christian Kirk, drafted rookie wide receiver Jayden Higgins and signed running back Nick Chubb. They will join Joe Mixon when the injured running back returns to action. He is recovering from a foot injury and has been sighted at camp wearing a walking boot. That has raised doubts he will be ready to play in the Texans’ Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 7.
