Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud said he's optimistic about regaining his best form ahead of a crucial 2026 season.
"I play this game because God has chosen me to go through these things and to have this talent," Stroud told ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime. "Got some guys around me that want to protect and want to run the ball. So I think that'll help, and I'm a hell of a football player."
Stroud recorded one of the greatest rookie seasons in NFL history in 2023 but hasn't replicated that success in the past two years. The former No. 2 pick's 2025 campaign ended with a head-scratching four-interception performance in the divisional round against the New England Patriots.
| 2023 | Stroud stats | 2024-25 |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Games | 31 |
| 63.9 | Pass% | 63.8 |
| 273.9 | Yds/Game | 218.3 |
| 1.5 | TD/Game | 1.25 |
| 5 | INT | 20 |
| 2 | Playoff games | 4 |
| 3 | Playoff TD | 3 |
| 0 | Playoff INT | 6 |
"Pressure is a privilege," Stroud said. "I'm excited. I've always been challenged in my career. I've always had to persevere through things, and I think this is something that I'm grateful for. I didn't wake up and forget how to play football."
Texans owner Cal McNair said in May that the team remains committed to Stroud despite his disappointing 2025. Houston extended franchise cornerstones Will Anderson Jr. and Derek Stingley Jr. but has yet to sign Stroud to a long-term deal. The 24-year-old is under contract through the 2027 season.
Houston receiver Nico Collins still has high expectations for Stroud.
"He's built for everything," Collins said. "We believe in him, we love him. This is the best position he can be in right now. I feel like he is about to go out and show the whole world what he's made of."
The Texans kick off their regular season against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Houston has won at least 10 games each year since DeMeco Ryans took over as head coach in 2023.
