C.J. Stroud could reach new heights after revelation of Texans’ new wrinkle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud isn’t just capable of getting back to his rookie form, he’s capable of exceeding it.
It’s been a whirlwind couple of seasons for the young signal-caller, who enjoyed unprecedented success as a rookie but failed to build upon it during his sophomore campaign — leading to significant turnover on the club’s offensive coaching staff.
Stroud has a new offensive coordinator as Bobby Slowik was replaced by Nick Caley.
How much influence will that change have?
Houston Texans placing more responsibility on plate of C.J. Stroud
The Texans are going to — get this — let the face of their franchise change protections and call audibles before the snap.
Revolutionary!
Stroud, surprising as it might seem, was not afforded that opportunity during the first two seasons of his career. Steven Ruiz of The Ringer revealed that information in a feature story that shared just how little responsibility was placed on the quarterback’s plate in 2023 and 2024.
Slowik placed schematic shackles on him, which is something he learned from working under notorious “do it my way” guy Kyle Shanahan. Caley is expected to be much more lenient, having worked under the likes of Sean McVay and Josh McDaniels.
It’s still on the kid to make all the right calls, but if he can, expect fireworks in Houston.
C.J. Stroud should have best season yet in 2025
Stroud faced more pressure than any quarterback in the NFL in 2024.
It’s obvious that the scheme had something to do with it, but so did the success — or lack thereof — of the guys tasked with blocking for him.
Laremy Tunsil, Kenyon Green, and Shaq Mason were all replaced in the offseason, as Cam Robinson, Laken Tomlinson, and rookie Aireontae Ersery will slide into the starting unit.
Tytus Howard will move from tackle to guard, where he had the best season of his career in 2021.
The Texans also brought in two new pass-catching options in rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. It’s not like they’re more talented than before, but they’ve certainly brought in enough pieces to feel comfortable placing increased pressure on Stroud.
It’s up to the kid, now.
