C.J. Strouds first year, in the NFL has been absolutely incredible. With each game the Houston Texans quarterback continues to impress and reshape the story of his career. While he's already a contender for Offensive Rookie of the Year everyone is wondering if Stroud can earn more accolades this winter.
In Houstons thrilling 30-27 win against the Cincinnati Bengals Stroud again displayed his exceptional talent. After a performance week with 470 yards and five touchdowns, Stroud delivered another impressive showing with 356 passing yards. What makes it more remarkable is that he achieved this with a group of unknown wide receivers on the Texans team. It's evident that Stroud isn't just benefiting from a supporting cast; hes truly driving Houstons success.
Strouds stats in his rookie season are truly remarkable especially considering that he had zero experience in the NFL before the 2023 season began. Among quarterbacks across the league only Sam Howell from Washington has thrown for more yards than Strouds total of 2,625 yards. Additionally Stroud has thrown 15 touchdowns a number surpassed by only seven other quarterbacks.
What makes Stroud stand out is not just his ability to throw passes but his impressive ability to avoid turnovers. At this point in the season, Stroud has only thrown three interceptions.
Strouds rookie statistics are drawing comparisons to the peak years of legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Even the dedicated supporters of Stroud couldn't have predicted such a rise.
Though Stroud may currently trail frontrunners like Jalen Hurts from Philadelphia and Tua Tagovailoa from Miami in the NFL MVP race a look at Houstons schedule suggests that he could be a serious MVP contender. Six of Houstons next eight games are against teams with records below 500. The season ends with three matchups against division rivals the Titans and Colts both of whom have struggled defensively.
If the MVP race remains tight by December, Stroud could find himself with an opportunity to make a push. Achieving such a feat would not only confirm his status as one of Houstons great young talents but also establish him as a genuine superstar in the NFL.
