Quarterback C.J. Stroud made a big impact in 2023, winning the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award and guiding the Texans to an AFC South title.
As Houston starts training camp this week, head coach DeMeco Ryans told reporters that Stroud, like many players, can make significant progress in his second year with a full offseason.
“Where can we expect growth in his second year? It’s primarily in his leadership — continuing to develop into the leader we expect,” Ryans said during his Thursday press briefing.
“And in his performance. The goal remains the same for C.J. and everyone else — to improve a little each day. There’s no big, dramatic change needed, just steady improvement.”
Ryans highlighted how much Stroud progressed from the start of last year’s camp to the end of the season, emphasizing his growth.
Additionally, Ryans noted that with a year of NFL experience, Stroud can now take on a more vocal role in leading not just the offense but the entire team. Ryans praised Stroud for organizing off-site throwing sessions to strengthen team chemistry outside of regular practices.
“I think C.J. has done a really good job this offseason as a leader when it comes to working with other guys — knowing that he’s not just working by himself, but finding ways to gather a group and work together,” Ryans said.
“That’s very important, especially for timing in the passing game between receivers and quarterbacks. They need to be in sync. And it’s clear they understand its importance because guys worked together this summer.”
But considering Stroud’s success in 2023, the young quarterback doesn’t need to change anything fundamentally going into his second season.
“C.J. just needs to be himself,” Ryans said. “That’s what makes C.J. a special player — being true to himself. He comes from a great family, raised with the right values, and does things the right way.
He just keeps being himself, and guys will follow him because of his work ethic, and positive attitude — that’s why guys will follow him.”
