Texans Name C.J. Stroud Starter vs. Saints
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans is yet to name a starting quarterback for Week 1, but all signs are pointing to their new face of the franchise getting the nod.
Ryans named quarterback C.J. Stroud the starter for the team’s final preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. The decision comes after the rookie improved week after week this summer.
In his preseason debut, Stroud struggled mightily. Though Houston beat the New England Patriots, 20-9, the first-team offense looked out of sync. Stroud was intercepted by defensive back Jalen Mills to end his first professional drive. The game seemed to move too fast, and social media was quick to anoint him as the next draft bust.
Part of why the Texans invested the second overall pick in Stroud was his makeup. Stroud took the bruising in stride and rose to the occasion last Saturday against the Miami Dolphins. Houston lost, 28-3, but the narrative had effectively been shifted.
Stroud completed seven of his 12 attempts, and while they didn’t find paydirt, he flashed a handful of difficult, off-platform throws. Simply put, he looked much more comfortable. He’ll get additional snaps early in Sunday’s contest.
“Everyone will play against the Saints,” said Ryans. “Starters should get about two series.”
The final preseason game is often a dress rehearsal for regular season action. Whether it be the pressure of his draft capital or a testament to his training camp growth, it is hard to ignore the growing likelihood of Stroud starting sooner rather than later.
Barring disaster, Texans fans can prepare for Stroud to be named the starter ahead of the season opener against the Baltimore Ravens.
You can follow Anthony Licciardi on Twitter @ALiccScouting.
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