Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud was undoubtedly the best rookie in the NFL last season. His Rookie of the Year award is clear validation of that.
Stroud impressed fans, peers, and analysts alike by leading an upstart Texans team all the way to the playoffs — and making some noise when they got there. Stroud was electric in a 45-14 dissection of a vaunted Browns defense during the AFC Wild Card Round. He went 16/21 for 274 yards and 3 touchdowns.
But Stroud believes even if you take out “rookie” qualifier next to his name, his first-year resume holds up amongst the NFL’s existing crop of star signal callers.
Houston Texans QB CJ Stroud Believes He’s Already Among The NFL’s Best
Stroud was among the stars present at Radio Row held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas during Super Bowl week. During a recent appearance on the “Zach Gelb Show,” the Ohio State alum was asked if he considers himself a top-5 QB in the league already. It’s safe to say the man does.
“Yes, sir. I do. I think I put it on film. I think my numbers speak for themselves, especially after missing two games. I think if I hadn’t missed those two games, my numbers would have been just as good or one of the best in the league. I think you can see the impact I had on my team.”
Stroud followed by stating that, beyond just answering Gelb’s question, he isn’t really isn’t the type to argue about his place amongst his peers.
“I’m not in the business of arguing if I’m top five or not. I really don’t care. I mean, I just want to win,” added Stroud.
Stroud also listed his top-5 quarterbacks, which included himself, Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and either Tua Tagovailoa or Jalen Hurts.
CJ Stroud says he's a top-5 QB in the NFL right now. @CBSSportsRadio @SportsRadio610 @CJ7STROUD pic.twitter.com/7aHcagrBLh
— Zach Gelb (@ZachGelb) February 9, 2024
CJ Stroud Looks Poised For An Even Bigger Breakout In Year 2
Stroud may just have one season under his belt, but the Texans QB certainly has a case for catapulting into the top-5 conversation next season. For some, Stroud might already be in their first five already.
In 15 games for the Texans, Stroud threw for 4,1208 yards with 28 touchdowns against just 5 interceptions. Stroud had the best TD-to-pick ratio in the entire NFL. He finished seventh in the NFL in passing yards despite missing two games due to a lengthy stint in concussion protocol.
If Stroud can build off his already sturdy foundation in Year 1, top-5 appears easily attainable for the Texans’ rising superstar.