Texans QB C.J. Stroud wins OROY honors, continuing Ohio State dominance

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud earned the Offensive Rookie of the Year award at Thursday's NFL Honors, capping off an incredible first season in the pros. 

Stroud's accolade also highlights the incredible number of first-year studs Ohio State has produced over the years. His win marks the sixth time since 2016 that a Buckeye has earned the honor on either offense or defense.

He joins New York Jets wideout Garrett Wilson (2022), San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Chase Young (2020) and edge rusher Nick Bosa (2019), New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2017) and Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa (2016). 

The No. 2 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud not only met expectations but surpassed them. Stroud threw for 4,108 yards, recording 26 total touchdowns with only five interceptions on the year while leading the Texans to an improbable AFC South title. 

"This honor means a lot -- to whatever kid is out there watching, you can do anything you put your mind to," Stroud said. "I'm a living testimony to perseverance and just trusting your goals and dreams." 

Stroud received 48 of 50 first-place votes for the honor. Los Angeles Rams WR Puka Nacua received two remaining first-place votes and 48 second-place votes, per Andrew Siciliano of NFL Network. 

Nacua had a historic campaign and was arguably just as deserving of the award. Despite having 19 receivers picked before him in the draft, Nacua was one of the best pass-catchers in the NFL, rookie or not. In his first pro season, he finished among the top 10 in receptions (105, tied for 8th), yards (1,486, 4th), and touchdowns (six, tied for 6th).