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Texans QB CJ Stroud’s Pregame Gesture Catches Attention

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Parker Johnson | Last updated Jan 11, 2025 4:14 PM ET

With so much on the line in the Houston Texans' NFL playoffs matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, quarterback C.J. Stroud did not lose sight of the bigger picture.

The second-year signal caller suffered through a rollercoaster year in Houston on the way to the playoffs. Despite starting two less games, the sophomore saw drops in regular season passing yards (4,108 to 3,727) and passing touchdowns (23 to 20) while throwing more than double the interceptions (5 to 12) from his impressive rookie season.

One big reason was the health of his wide receiver corps. Top target Nico Collins only started 12 games, spending time on injured reserve with a hamstring problem. Stefon Diggs' season ended early because of a torn ACL on Oct. 29.

But nothing was more devastating than Tank Dell's gruesome injury against the Kansas City Chiefs on Dec. 21 that saw him join Diggs on the season-ending injury list.

Ready to lead his undermanned offense into battle against the Chargers on Saturday, Stroud paid tribute to his absent wideout Dell with a touching gesture that caught the attention of fans.

The team captain and some of his Texans teammates wore customized Dreamathon T-shirts during warmups at NRG Stadium featuring images of Dell on both sides.

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A post shared by Houston Texans (@houstontexans)

"For tank," wrote a fan in the comments of the Texans' Instagram post.

"Now that’s a team," replied one user.

my heart https://t.co/31EetbGZGy
— SheHasMoxie (@Moxie1983) January 11, 2025

"Missing our boy," lamented a response.

Dell, still on crutches, joined Diggs on the sideline to watch the AFC postseason showdown.

"He will be missed .. but handle business in his honor," emphasized another.

"My eyes are actually sweating," said an emotional supporter on X.

With their gesture, Stroud and his teammates sent the message that every member of the team helped Houston get the playoffs. Regardless of the outcome on Saturday, Dell's place in their harts was not in doubt.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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