Peyton Manning keeps fans honest about their qualms with Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud after just two seasons

"I always talk about how hard it is as a rookie to play, and C.J. goes obviously it's not that hard, and he dominates as a rookie," Peyton Manning said at Fanatics Fest. "And what does that do? That gives them [opposing teams] more film to look at to try and figure out what he's doing... He went to the playoffs in his 2nd year. He was 22. Let’s be careful about saying it was a down year. I didn’t win a playoff game until my sixth year. He’s 2 for 2.”

Last year Stroud had a "down year" because of the play by the offensive line and the play calling, along with all of the injuries he had to deal with from his line and weapons. It wasn't great, no, but he still won a playoff game. And, the Texans have made some of the necessary moves to help him in 2025.

2025 expectations for C.J. Stroud

C.J. Stroud is coming off a season that many would describe as disappointing. With a new offensive coordinator and multiple pass-catching upgrades in the building for 2025, expectations are a mixed bag.

For me, I won’t be surprised by a bounce-back campaign for Stroud who showed perennial Pro Bowl aspects during his rookie year. I think Houston needs to find a more consistent running game and incorporate more play-action on early downs to see Stroud shine once again.

With rookie WR Jayden Higgins added to the mix alongside Nico Collins, the young QB has multiple big-body options that can win downfield. The Texans simply must trust Stroud to take those shots. Not to mention, Stroud will play against AFC South defenses with plenty of questions in the secondary. That always helps, too. - A to Z Sports' Adam Holt