Who’s leading the charge for Texans with CJ Stroud out?

The Houston Texans and CJ Stroud find themselves in a precarious playoff scenario within the fiercely contested AFC South. Holding a 7-6 record, they currently occupy the third position in the division, trailing behind the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts.

The Texans’ challenges extend beyond the standings, grappling with a team beset by injuries. The loss of Tank Dell to a season-ending injury dealt a severe blow, further compounded by Stroud’s recent concussion during a game. With the starting quarterback sidelined and navigating the concussion protocol, the team will face the daunting task of relying on an alternate QB to steer them through this challenging period.

Case Keenum named starting QB with CJ Stroud ruled out

The Texans found themselves at a crossroads in their quarterback decision-making due to the injury sidelining their regular starter, CJ Stroud. They were weighing between the seasoned Case Keenum and the developing Davis Mills to fill the crucial position.

Recent reports from NFL Network’s James Palmer say the nod to start will go to Keenum, despite Mills officially holding the No. 2 QB slot. Although untested in game situations this season, Keenum is expected to bring valuable experience, having last showcased his skills in 2021 when he delivered commendable performances while filling in for Baker Mayfield with the Cleveland Browns.

The QB’s history intertwines with the Texans, as he started his NFL journey with the team in 2012. He boasts a wealth of experience, especially the memorable stint with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017, where he took over amid an injury and led the team to an impressive 11-3 run on the way to an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.

Meanwhile, Mills has been the Texans’ more recent on-field contributor as he stepped into the quarterback role in various games throughout 2021-2022 and even replaced Stroud in Week 14. However, despite his recent involvement, Keenum’s vast experience in 64 career starts and his performance during the Texans’ recent practice sessions secured him the starting position.

Stroud under concussion protocol since Jets’ loss

C.J. Stroud is still out of action due to a concussion suffered in their recent game against the New York Jets. The setback has left the team uncertain as they prepare for an upcoming clash against the Tennessee Titans.

The absence of the former Snoop Youth Football League player comes as a result of a brutal hit by Jets’ defensive lineman Quinnen Williams late in the fourth quarter of the game. The hit forced him out of the match and immediately raised concerns about his well-being. As the team adheres to league guidelines, the young star is undergoing the mandatory five-step concussion protocol.

Although there were positive updates from head coach DeMeco Ryans earlier in the week regarding Stroud’s progress, he remained in the protocol and got ruled out for the Titans game, per ESPN.

The absence of CJ Stroud, who ranks second in passing yards (3,631 yards) in the NFL and holds an impressive fifth-best passer rating at 98.7, will be a significant setback for the Texans. Offense lineman George Fant’s hip/illness problem has rendered him unavailable, while cornerback Steven Nelson’s wrist injury has cast doubt on his availability, further adding to the roster issues.