There’s no denying quarterback CJ Stroud has been a force to be reckoned with on the field during his first year in the league. Turns out, the Houston Texans star’s rookie campaign is one of the best from the last decade.
Stroud was selected second overall by the Houston Texans in the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud had a dominant college career, breaking numerous school records and earning accolades such as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award (2021, 2022) and being a Heisman Trophy finalist in consecutive seasons.
In his rookie NFL season, Stroud led the Texans to a division title and a playoff victory, culminating in him being named the Offensive Rookie of the Year. His impressive stats from his first pro season, including 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 100.8, showcase his tremendous potential.
Stroud’s journey to the NFL has not been without its challenges. Growing up, his family faced financial hardship after his father was incarcerated for over 20 years. However, Stroud remained focused on his football career, starring at the high school and collegiate levels before being selected early in the 2023 draft.
Houston Texans Star CJ Stroud’s Rookie Campaign Ranked Among The Best From The Last Decade
Like Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott before him, Stroud is among the select few in the league that boasted a stellar rookie campaign. Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon explained in an analysis why the Texan star’s first year in the league was noteworthy.
“Stroud threw for 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns to five interceptions, adding three scores on the ground. He rapidly elevated the Texans, who defeated the Indianapolis Colts in the regular-season finale to claim the AFC South crown with a 10-7 record.
Houston steamrolled Cleveland behind a three-touchdown showing from Stroud in the Wild Card Round before Baltimore eliminated the Texans. Not only did he secure a near-unanimous AP Offensive ROY honor, but Stroud even garnered a few votes in the MVP race,” Kenyon wrote.
Stroud had a historic rookie season, passing for over 4,000 yards and becoming the first Ohio State quarterback to be named to the Pro Bowl. The Texans’ offense flourished under Stroud’s leadership, and he is a finalist for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
At just 22 years old, Stroud has already established himself as one of the league’s rising stars. With his combination of size, arm strength, and decision-making ability, he is poised to lead the Texans for years to come and potentially become one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
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