OFFICIAL: Texans Rule C.J. Stroud Out vs. Browns With Concussion
The Houston Texans officially ruled out quarterback C.J. Stroud for Sunday’s Week 16 contest against the Cleveland Browns.
Friday’s injury report came with bad news for the Houston faithful, confirming that Stroud would miss his second consecutive game with a concussion he suffered against the New York Jets in Week 14.
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The Texans were able to outlast the Tennessee Titans in overtime, 19-16, in his absence in Week 15. Veteran backup Case Keenum did enough to complement a strong defensive performance and a heroic return from kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn, who hit the game-winning field goal in the final seconds of overtime.
The Browns (9-5) present a tougher challenge, though they will be without quarterback Deshaun Watson. Joe Flacco will start in his place. Cleveland’s elite defense is less forgiving than Tennessee’s leaky secondary, forcing Keenum to be on the mark against a ferocious pass rush headlined by Myles Garrett.
Stroud’s absence puts a slight dent in his Offensive Rookie of the Year chances, but more importantly, puts Houston’s playoff aspirations in doubt. Per the New York Times playoff simulator, a win in front of the home fans on Sunday could bring the Texans’ chances of postseason play up to approximately 70 percent. A loss, however, knocks them down to about 30 percent.
Both Cleveland and Houston are jostling for playoff positioning in an AFC Wild Card race that features seven teams within their respective divisions. Without Stroud, who has exceeded all expectations as a rookie, advancing to 9-6 becomes significantly more difficult.
Stroud has thrown for 3,631 yards, 20 touchdowns, and five interceptions across 13 games this season, cementing himself as the top rookie passer from his class.
Houston will also be without third-overall pick -- and standout edge rusher -- Will Anderson Jr. (ankle) and linebacker Blake Cashman (hamstring), who has enjoyed a breakout season.
Receiver Nico Collins (calf), along with defensive tackle Maliek Collins (hip) and linebacker Denzel Perryman (Achilles), is questionable for Sunday’s game.
Kickoff is at noon (CT) in Houston.
