CJ Stroud has officially been named the Houston Texans starting quarterback following a solid preseason showing.
When Stroud was drafted second overall out of Ohio State during the 2023 NFL Draft, it was inevitable his time would come in Houston. Some thought there was a chance he’d have to wait behind a veteran while he got his feet wet, but the Texans feel Stroud is ready to rock as their leader.
Now, Stroud will be leading Houston onto the field when they open up the 2023 season against the Baltimore Ravens. He’ll will have his work cut out for him, taking on former league MVP Lamar Jackson to start his career in the NFL.
Nevertheless, Stroud will be prepared, but it’s not lost on him how big of a moment this is, as he took some time to reflect after Sunday’s preseason game came to a close, and he was named the starting quarterback.
“First and foremost, I just want all glory and praise to my lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Just having that opportunity man. It’s a blessing to be able to play this game. Especially in the league man, especially at the Superdome. Definitely was a blessing to be out there,” Stroud said. “But same thing, you’ve just got to keep working. Definitely a blessing. Something that I think I worked for, and definitely earned. But at the same time, nothing else really changes. I’m still going to work like the way I’m working, even more now.
“So blessed 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 I’ll go out there and try to do my best.”
Continuing, Stroud was a two-year starter at Ohio State, leading the Buckeyes to a College Football Playoff berth last season. There are high expectations for the rookie to become the next face of the Texans franchise.
Stroud saw action in all three of Houston’s preseason games, though his reps were limited. He completed 2-of-4 passes in the opener against the New England Patriots, totaling 13 yards and throwing an interception.
Things looked a little better for the rookie out of Ohio State in his second game, completing 7-of-12 passes for 60 yards in a loss to the Miami Dolphins. It wasn’t until his final game of the preseason when he threw a touchdown pass.
Regardless, the regular season is a different animal, but the Houston Texans believe CJ Stroud is ready, and are deciding to give him the keys to the franchise.
On3’s Dustin Schutte contributed to this article.
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