C.J. Stroud is ‘getting a little bit better’ but remains in doubt to play Sunday
The Houston Texans’ improbable pursuit of the NFL playoffs likely hinges on whether their quarterback can quickly overcome a scary head injury.
That is the challenge facing C.J. Stroud, the probable Offensive Rookie of the Year who was rapidly become one of the league’s better quarterbacks. Stroud suffered a concussion during Sunday’s 30-6 loss to the New York Jets, and the Texans — precariously perched in the AFC playoff picture — are hoping the star signal-caller returns sooner than later, as only four games remain in the regular season.
Ryans offers an update
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans told reporters on Wednesday that while Stroud did not practice on Wednesday, he is on the road to recovery after he suffered the head injury.
“C.J., he’s getting a little bit better,” Ryans said. “We’ll see how the week continues to go, but he’s still in the concussion protocol.”
Stroud was injured midway through the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, when Jets lineman Quinnen Williams smothered him. It was the second time in as many weeks where Stroud took a big hit that left him dazed — he missed two plays during the week 13 win over the Denver Broncos after he was left worse for wear on a quarterback sneak.