How rookie is gaining lead in Texans' QB competition

Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud hasn't officially earned the Texans starting job, but his teammates are already beginning to follow him.

"I think he's gained respect immediately from his teammates," Omar Ruiz of NFL Network said Tuesday on "NFL Total Access." 

Stroud, the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is making his presence felt throughout the organization, displaying impressive composure and knowledge throughout the team's offseason program.

"Nothing's looked too big for Stroud," wrote Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated. "He's shown a high aptitude and isn't starting from zero when it comes to playing in a pro-style offense. And the coaches and front-office folks have seen other players, even the vets, gravitating toward Stroud, who's easygoing and comfortable as a leader."

Leadership is an important quality for a QB because it can help motivate his teammates, allowing them to maximize their abilities. It's a great sign for Houston that the 21-year-old is quickly developing this quality.

The Texans haven't won more than five games for three consecutive seasons. One reason they've struggled is erratic play at QB. In two seasons, QB Davis Mills has a 5-19-1 starting record. Last season, he tied the league lead in interceptions, throwing 15 in 15 games. 

"No one has a defined starting role right now," Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said recently. But Mills isn't the answer, and it's only a matter of time before Stroud takes over.

Stroud worked with the first team offense during mandatory minicamp, and QB Jerrod Johnson said he is "already way, way ahead of pace" with his footwork and timing, per Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle.
The Texans should feel optimistic about their first-round pick because he might have the traits a franchise savior needs.