Ryans officially announces that C.J. Stroud Named Texans Starting Quarterback

 

  Written by : MAi' Ghen Storm | Photo credit: Brian Barefield

C.J. Stroud has earned the starting quarterback job for the Houston Texans. Head coach DeMeco Ryans made the announcement on Sunday night following the team's preseason finale against the New Orleans Saints.

"C.J. will be our Week 1 starter in Baltimore," Ryans said. "He did a good job against the Saints and had a good week against Miami when we hosted the Dolphins for joint practices and the second preseason game."

Stroud, the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, led the Texans on two scoring drives in the preseason finale, throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Nico Collins. He finished the game 2-of-4 for 16 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions.

Stroud and third-year veteran Davis Mills began training camp splitting first-team reps, but Stroud eventually took over all first-team reps. Ryans said the decision to name Stroud the starter was based on his performance throughout the offseason and preseason.

"It's been over the course of the entire process of OTAs, training camp, preseason games, seeing the complete product and knowing C.J.'s desire to continue to get better," Ryans said. "We know we're not where we need to be as a team overall, but we all have to continue to get better and C.J. is committed to doing that."

The Texans will open their 2023 regular season on Sunday, September 10 at Baltimore against the Ravens.

Stroud's Reaction

Stroud said he was "blessed" to be named the starter and that he would continue to work hard to improve.

"Was definitely a blessing, something that I think I worked for and definitely earned, but at the same time, nothing else really changes," Stroud said. "Still going to work like the way I'm working even more now. So I'm blessed enough to be able to be a starter so young in this league, which isn't the easiest thing to do. But I know my coaches have trust and faith in me, so we'll go out there and try to do my best."

Stroud is a talented quarterback with a lot of potential. He is known for his strong arm and accuracy, and he also has the mobility to make plays outside the pocket. He will be a key player for the Texans as they try to rebuild their franchise.