Veteran WR Christian Kirk Reveals Texans Ceiling with QB C.J. Stroud

“The thing that sticks out about C.J. is he’s super mild-mannered, but he has a lot of confidence, he’s smart, he sees things well,” Kirk said. 

“He’s a really good communicator and I think with that position, quarterback, and him being a younger guy, that’s a big part of him getting to where he is now and still excelling, the communication piece with not only the receivers but new offensive coordinator, offensive line, whatever the case may be it’s just open communication and us being all on the same page to help him excel.”

After an impressive rookie campaign, Stroud's numbers dipped slightly during his sophomore year. He threw for 3,727 yards with 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions last season. His 49.8 QBR - down from 58.3 the previous year - was 24th among NFL quarterbacks. 

Despite the drop in production, Stroud led the Texans to another AFC South title and divisional round berth last season. Kirk, however, believes they can go even further this season. 

“He’s going to take this team as far as we want to go, with him being at his best,” Kirk said. “He’s been great within the few months of spending time around him, communicating with him in the locker room, outside the facility, he’s got a bright future and I’m really excited to get to work with him.”

Kirk is one of several new wide receivers Stroud will have at his disposal this fall. 

The Texans added veterans Braxton Berrios and Justin Watson this offseason, and scooped up Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel in the draft. They also return Nico Collins, who has recorded two-straight 1,000-yard seasons.