Multiple Texans Make ESPN Top 10 Rookies List
The Houston Texans have completely reversed their franchise fortunes in the 2023 season, thanks in large part to a young core of talent on the roster.
Some of the most productive of these stars have been in Houston's rookie class, and they received some recognition on Wednesday as part of ESPN's Top 10 rookies list. Two Texans made the cut with one falling just short of the list in a series of careers that have shone a bright light on the organization's future.
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Leading the way on the list is Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, coming in at the No. 1 spot. Stroud, selected No. 2 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, put up 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and five interceptions in the regular season, and he was a large part in Houston's blowout win over the Cleveland Browns in the Wild Card round of the postseason.
Holding down the No. 6 slot on the list is Texans defensive end Will Anderson. He was selected No. 3 overall in 2023 out of Alabama, and he posted marks of 45 tackles and 7 sacks in the regular season.
Just missing the cut of the list but receiving a de facto honorable mention slot is wide receiver Tank Dell. Dell very well could have made the Top 10 had he not suffered a fractured fibula in Week 13, but he still finished third on the team in receptions (47) and second in receiving yards (709) and touchdowns (seven).
Houston will look to ride its playoff momentum into its biggest test of the season on Saturday when it travels to face the top-seeded Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised on ESPN and ABC.
