Stroud's Meteoric Rise Positions Texans for Another Strong Season
The Houston Texans witnessed a transformative season last year under the stellar play of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. The No. 2 overall pick firmly entrenched himself as the Texans' starting quarterback, and his performance has the team eyeing even loftier heights in the upcoming season.
Stroud's rookie campaign was one for the record books. Leading Houston to an AFC South title and a playoff victory, he became the youngest quarterback in NFL history to win a postseason game. Along the way, Stroud shattered franchise records in passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and attempts, and was deservedly crowned Offensive Rookie of the Year.
"Definitely a little more confident just knowing how training camp works, the reps I'll take," Stroud shared as he approached his second training camp with an air of self-assurance. This year, he transitions smoothly into his role, looking forward to leading the first team from the outset. "Going with the ones. Last year, I really didn't know that until the very beginning of the regular season," he reflected.
The Texans have bolstered their roster in the offseason, adding renowned wideout Stefon Diggs and versatile running back Joe Mixon. Such key additions have pundits and fans alike considering Houston as a favorite to win the AFC South yet again. With a maturing Stroud at the helm, the aspirations extend further—to a potential Super Bowl LIX appearance.
Stroud's growth has not been just in skill, but also in leadership. "There's a ton of things. Owning the offense more, the operation. Putting more on my plate with run checks and protection checks, things like that," he details about his offseason focus. He recognizes the importance of setting a high standard for his teammates. "Right now it's just trying to not only build the camaraderie, but also be a leader with the first team so the second and third and everybody who's watching that this is the standard. It's up to me to set that standard and I have to do that every day."
Committed to fostering a winning mentality, Stroud emphasizes the significance of maintaining focus. "The message is just keep the main thing, the main thing. Of course, we have not only a lot of expectations, we have a lot of big goals on this team. That's how it should be," he conveys. "You know, the person that always doubts himself will probably never make it, so you have to have confidence and a goal and a plan and execute that plan." This mindset has rubbed off on the Texans, who are resolute in their quest.
While hopes for postseason glory are high, Stroud remains steadfastly grounded. "Really you need to be where your feet are. We're in training camp right now. We've got to just execute that and make sure we're taking every day to get better," he wisely notes. Such dedication to daily improvement could be pivotal as the Texans navigate the challenges of a demanding NFL season.
The upcoming season promises an amalgamation of youthful zeal and expert planning as Stroud and his teammates gear up for what they hope will be another record-setting year. "You win, you move on, so that's the goal from start to finish," Stroud succinctly sums up the team's ethos.
With a confident leader at the helms and key additions to the roster, the Houston Texans are not only aiming for another division title but are setting their sights on the ultimate prize. The journey to Super Bowl LIX has begun, and under C.J. Stroud's capable leadership, the Texans aim to make an indelible mark on the NFL landscape.