Texans' C.J. Stroud sticks up for fellow rookie QB

"Honestly and personally, watching the film and watching every game of his, I don't think in any way, aspect or form, he's playing bad," the Houston Texans QB said Wednesday, per Pro Football Talk. "Of course, there are always things you can clean up. I can clean up things. I'm not here to be his coach —I'm here just to support."

The QBs will be connected throughout their careers. The Carolina Panthers selected Young with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, while Houston selected Stroud with the No. 2 pick.

So far, Stroud looks like the better player. In six games, he's 3-3 as a starter, has thrown nine TDs, one interception and completed 59.6 percent of his passes. Young is 0-5 as a starter, has thrown six TDs, four interceptions and completed 63.2 percent of his passes.

"Vibe-wise [Stroud] has mostly operated the offense like a seasoned veteran," wrote CBS Sports NFL Draft analyst Chris Trapasso. "It's a real challenge to point to one area in which the No. 1 overall pick has thrived. He's very much looked like an overwhelmed rookie."

Stroud, however, is in a better environment. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik is a disciple of San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and an excellent playcaller. Also, third-year WR Nico Collins is ninth in the NFL in yards per game (91.2).

Young, meanwhile, already dealt with a significant coaching change as Panthers head coach Frank Reich recently handed play calling to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. And WR Adam Thielen (49) is the only Carolina pass-catcher who has crossed the 20-reception mark.    

It's good Stroud is taking the high road and not bashing Young because he's in a difficult situation that's limiting his growth.