C.J. Stroud, the Houston Texans quarterback, has provided an update on his offseason recovery, assuring fans and media that his shoulder soreness from last season is not a significant concern and that he has returned to full participation in team activities. Though Stroud did not throw during the Texans’ Organized Team Activities (OTAs), he resumed throwing drills during minicamp, emphasizing that his absence from OTAs was part of a rigorous offseason training schedule rather than injury-related issues.
Stroud expressed confidence in his health, stating,
“I was already throwing before you guys got to see me out there, pretty normally, I think y’all don’t have much to talk about so everything is blown up,”
via ESPN reporter DJ Bien-Aime. He also addressed previous shoulder soreness, saying,
“I never thought too much of it. It’s not that big of [a deal]. And I did not get surgery or anything like that. I’m fine. It’s not as bad as people making it seem.”
Texans Head Coach DeMeco Ryans Prioritizes Protecting Stroud
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that the team is focused on protecting Stroud as he continues to develop his career. Ryans emphasized the importance of internal knowledge about Stroud’s condition and dismissed outside speculation.
“It’s important for me to just make sure we’re protecting him,”
Ryans said.
“To make sure we know what’s best for C.J. and not really worry about the outside opinions. Nobody knows the information about our players more than me.”
This approach highlights the Texans’ commitment to safeguarding their quarterback’s health while preparing for the upcoming NFL season, reflecting a cautious and player-focused management style.
Jaguars DB Coach on Caleb Ransaw’s Position Shift and Development
Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars are optimistic about the transition of their third-round draft pick Caleb Ransaw from cornerback to safety. Jaguars defensive backs coach Anthony Perkins praised Ransaw’s adaptability and athleticism during this position change, sharing positive observations from the draft process.
Perkins stated,
“We were very excited just during the draft process, we thought based on his skill set what he showed on tape, he’d be able to make that transition and play more at safety and he hasn’t disappointed. He’s done a tremendous job.”
He also commented on Ransaw’s ongoing learning curve, saying,
“Every day’s a new day, every rep is a new rep, so he’s learning. All those safeties are learning, but he’s doing a tremendous job of picking it up. I think he’s super athletic. I think he’s got a very high ceiling in this league, and I’m excited to continue to see him grow within the scheme of our defense.”
Treylon Burks Shares His Mental Strength and Recovery Journey
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Treylon Burks reflected on his recovery from an ACL tear and discussed how his mindset has evolved during his rehabilitation. Despite a challenging start to his career, Burks remains determined and motivated, expressing deep gratitude toward those supporting him.
Burks explained,
“It really starts with your mental, man. Tearing an ACL, having any big injury like that, is definitely devastating. I did it by the grace of God, just to make it simple. I wouldn’t be able to do it without Him, without the courage He provides me. My daughter, my wife, a lot of friends, family. It means more when you are able to do it for just a bigger purpose than just yourself, I pride myself on that. I’m just blessed by the grace of God, and the people that have poured into me, and have worked with me every day to get me back to where I am now. I am just extremely excited to get back and play ball again.”
He also described how the injury led him to appreciate football on a deeper level:
“I never questioned God, like, ‘Why me? But it did put the mindset in my head, on if I still love the game, because it comes with a lot. And, just from going out every day, seeing what the guys are going through, watching it from home, it made me miss it more, and (now I want) to honor it. Every day that I am here at this facility, and every day that I am working, I don’t take it for granted. It means a lot more to me now. I’m not saying it didn’t mean a lot before, but it definitely means more now.”
Burks importantly emphasized his motivation comes from believing in himself rather than proving others wrong:
“I am not going out to prove nobody wrong, I am going out to prove myself right. I tore my ACL (last October) and I am running. I am running routes, doing everything within those seven months, and it’s like, Wow. And it’s nobody but God who made it happen. That’s who I play for and that’s who I lean on. I am not worried about whoever is in the room or whoever we’ve got. We’re a team and we’re going to go out and play ball.”
Outlook and Importance of offseason recovery updates
The updates from C.J. Stroud and Treylon Burks underscore the critical role of mental and physical resilience in the NFL, particularly during offseason recovery periods. Stroud’s clarification about his shoulder health and the Texans’ continued protective efforts aim to ensure he can perform at his best in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Burks’ story highlights the power of faith, support systems, and self-belief in overcoming serious injuries.
With key team figures like Texans coach DeMeco Ryans prioritizing player care and development, fans can expect focused efforts on maintaining player health across the league. Stroud’s successful return to full activity after his offseason recovery will be a vital factor in the Texans’ season preparation, as the team looks to build around their quarterback’s talents while minimizing injury risks.