C.J. Stroud Improves with Texans' Offense

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans highlighted a noticeable change with C.J. Stroud at mandatory minicamp on Tuesday.

What happened?

The Texans suffered a tough loss to the New England Patriots in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. C.J. Stroud had a nightmare day, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of fans.

Why it matters for C.J. Stroud

Stroud has a lot to prove heading into his fourth season after two up-and-down seasons. He exploded onto the scene as a star quarterback as a rookie, but now faces pressure to perform. DeMeco Ryans talked about the collaboration and growing relationship between C.J. Stroud and Nick Caley.

What comes next?

Ryans said C.J. Stroud has ideas and thoughts on different plays and formations, which they try to implement. The coach-player relationship is headed in the right direction, with improved communication. This is a positive sign for the Texans, who have a strong defense and a chance to make a run to the Super Bowl. The offense needs to be above-average for the team to succeed, and it starts with C.J. Stroud getting back on his path to stardom. In 2025, Houston's defense finished the year as one of the most fearsome units in football, leading the Texans on their playoff run. The Texans' defense even kept it in the game with a chance to win in the second half despite the offense's struggles in the Divisional Round loss. C.J. Stroud and the offense will look to improve and make a deeper playoff run in the 2026 season.