Don't Panic Over C.J. Stroud's Preseason Debut
Nobody wants to throw an ugly interception on the second drive of their NFL preseason debut.
I'm sure nobody wants to face a Bill Belichick defense in that situation, either.
C.J. Stroud did both of those things Thursday night, as he struggled through a brief appearance as the Houston Texans' starter before watching the rest of the preseason opener from the sideline.
On the interception, Stroud was baited by a savvy veteran in Patriots defensive back Jalen Mills, who was roaming free and watching the rookie quarterback's eyes. It was definitely a decision and a throw Stroud would want back, but that's exactly why these preseason reps are so important.
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No rookie quarterback is going to make every right decision from the moment he hits the field at the pro level. Preseason reps are about gaining experience against a live opponent in a real-game situation, and learning not to repeat the same mistakes after you've had a chance to go back and evaluate the film.
Facing an experienced Belichick defense in his first preseason game probably wasn't much fun for Stroud, but it should provide him with a valuable learning experience as he continues to grow as a pro quarterback. It won't be the last time he's tested by a much more experienced coach and unit, but he's got all the physical and mental tools to make sure he grows from it.
It's just one game. Two possessions. Four pass attempts.
Stroud still has a sky-high ceiling for a Texans team that should be much improved over last year's offering. There's tons of young talent around him on both sides of the ball, and a new coaching staff with just as much potential.
The future is still plenty bright for both Stroud and the Texans, despite the small sample we got Thursday night.
