C.J. Stroud Looks to Reclaim Rookie-Year Success

C.J. Stroud Looks to Reclaim Rookie-Year Success

C.J. Stroud had one of the best rookie seasons of all time in 2023. He threw for over 4100 yards, 23 touchdowns and only five interceptions. He led Houston to a 10-7 record, an AFC South title, and a playoff victory over the Browns. Stroud’s 2023 season wasn’t just impressive for a rookie, it was impressive for any player in the league. He looked like the Texans' answer for the future. 

Year 2 Falloff

The 2024 season saw Stroud take a step back. His completion percentage dropped to 63% and he more than doubled his interceptions from the year prior. It was clear that he wasn’t the same player he was in 2023, but the Texans continued to see success. They went 10-7 and won a playoff game for the second consecutive year. The Houston defense has been among the best in the league since Stroud was drafted, and they covered up his struggles in his second season.

Still Not the Same CJ Stroud in Year Three

Stroud completed his third season in the league last year, and we saw more of the same from 2024. His interception numbers went down but his total yardage dropped by almost 700 yards, barely eclipsing the 3,000 mark. He lacked big play production and struggled to throw the ball down the field.

Once again, the defense disguised Stroud’s poor play. They went 12-5 and made the playoffs yet again, before ultimately losing to New England in a game where Stroud was a shell of his former self. 

Texans Supporting Cast

It’s important to note that while Stroud continued to struggle last season, his supporting cast was changing constantly. The offensive line saw changes throughout the season, his receiving core was often injured, and the system changed when the team hired Offensive Coordinator Nick Caley.

Not to mention, star receiver Tank Dell has missed the last two seasons due to injury. Stroud’s surroundings can be partially to blame for his struggles, but the fact remains he hasn’t been the same quarterback he was in 2023. 

Crucial Year Four for Stroud

With Stroud entering his fourth season in the NFL, it’s ever so important he gets back to the level he once was. Houston is expected to compete for the AFC this year. They have arguably the league’s best defense, and one of the best young coaches in Demeco Ryans. They need their quarterback to produce.

Luckily for Stroud, he has enough talent that he doesn’t need to do anything out of the ordinary to have success. Simply being more efficient, getting sacked less, and having more explosive down the field throws is all he needs to do. Stroud has shown the NFL what he’s capable of. Now he has to prove that his rookie year wasn’t a fluke.