BREAKING: Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud OUT vs. Titans?
HOUSTON — Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is likely out for their Week 15 contest against the Tennessee Titans. He remains in concussion protocol following their 30-6 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday.
With 6:43 left in the fourth quarter, Stroud took a hard hit by Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams. The hit caused Stroud's head to bounce off the turf of MetLife Stadium. After a few seconds of grimacing in pain, Stroud walked to the locker room and did not return.
Texans' C.J. Stroud
Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Coach DeMeco Ryans announced on Wednesday that Stroud was "getting a little bit better,” but despite the encouraging report, the rookie quarterback from Ohio State will probably miss the first game of his professional career. With Stroud unavailable, Davis Mills would be scheduled to start in his place at Nissan Stadium.
"We feel that we have a really strong quarterback room since training camp," Ryans said. "In this league, you never know what will happen. But it's comforting to have (backup) guys who can go out there and play and not miss a beat."
During Houston's season finale, Mills led the team to a 32-31 Week 18 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, where he finished with 298 yards while going 22-for-38 and three touchdowns. Unfortunately, a pair of interceptions during the third quarter hindered his play. However, Mills led the Texans on his first career game-winning drive.
In the final 2 minutes and 43 seconds, the Texans recorded 83 yards in 14 plays that ended with Mills connecting with tight end Jordan Akins for a game-winning 28-yard touchdown.
A loss of Stroud is enormous for the Texans, but there will be other missing players. Houston will also be without defensive end Will Anderson, wide receiver Nico Collins (calf), linebacker Blake Cashman (hamstring) and defensive back Tavierre Thomas (hamstring).
