Third-year quarterback C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans is set to begin training camp later this month, bringing encouraging news about his physical condition and readiness. After some offseason concern regarding his throwing shoulder, Stroud has demonstrated progress, even practicing alongside New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields, another former Ohio State star and first-round draft pick.

Fields, who led the NFL in rushing yards per attempt in 2022, and Stroud have built a notable connection due to their shared Ohio State background and first-round status, though they have not faced each other directly in an NFL game yet. Their teams met last season, with the Jets winning both encounters, including one when Stroud was sidelined by injury. They are unlikely to match up in the 2024 regular season unless both teams meet in the postseason.

Clarifications on Stroud’s Shoulder Health and Offseason Activity

Concerns about Stroud’s throwing shoulder surfaced early this offseason during limited media access in the Texans’ offseason program. However, Stroud quickly reassured the public that slight tightness had not hampered his actual throwing, citing that he had been throwing regularly before being seen by cameras.

He spoke openly with reporters in June, expressing his excitement to return to practice while acknowledging some rust after time off.

“I’m very grateful to be back out on the field. A little rusty. Made some throws, missed some throws, but I’m just very grateful to be out there with the guys and have a time to compete before we go a couple days away into camp. So, I’m very excited to be back. But just iron sharpens iron, trying to talk a little smack, but it was great,”

Stroud said.

Additionally, Stroud commented on media speculation about his condition:

“I was already throwing before you guys seen me out there pretty normally. Just, I think, y’all don’t have much to talk about. So, y’all just –everything is blown up in the offseason. So, I’m fine, man. I’m really okay.”

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed the team’s cautious approach during the voluntary offseason activities, placing Stroud on an individual training plan to manage soreness. Ryans emphasized there are no health concerns and remains confident in Stroud’s ability to participate fully in the upcoming training camp.

“It’s just general soreness. We’re taking extra precaution with him, but he’ll be good to go. No concerns on my end,”

Ryans told reporters.

The Texans will officially begin training camp on July 22, and Stroud’s readiness is a key focus for both the franchise and fans.

Stroud’s Contract and Performance Challenges Remain Central to Texans’ Plans

Looking beyond physical health, C.J. Stroud faces a significant upcoming contractual decision that could shape the Texans’ future. As the team’s franchise quarterback, his performance and wellbeing are critical, especially with a potentially transformative contract extension on the horizon next offseason.

Stroud’s shoulder tightness this offseason, combined with the high pressure he faced in games last year—absorbing 52 sacks, the second-highest total in the NFL—has amplified concerns about durability.

Analysts, including John Kosko of Pro Football Focus, have pointed to Stroud’s mixed trajectory. Kosko described Stroud as a quarterback who flashed brilliance as a rookie but endured challenges the following year before finishing the 2024 season strongly, including playoff success.

However, Kosko highlighted a notable issue:

“One glaring issue remains: his pressure-to-sack rate. After taking just 39 sacks as a rookie, that number ballooned to 63 in 2024, a problem that must be addressed moving forward.”

This statistic reflects the overall challenges Stroud faced in pass protection and decision-making under pressure, crucial elements the Texans must consider ahead of any contract negotiations.

In the 2023 season, Stroud was sacked 36 times, indicating a steep increase in the following season. The Texans organization is likely waiting to see if Stroud can mitigate this vulnerability as part of their judgment on a long-term contract.

What Lies Ahead for C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans

The upcoming training camp will be a critical period for Stroud and the Texans to evaluate his physical health, development, and ability to lead the team. The cautious management of his shoulder this offseason suggests the Texans are prioritizing his long-term durability.

As the Texans prepare for a new NFL season, the quarterback’s progress in camp and early games will influence both his career trajectory and the franchise’s financial commitments. How effectively Stroud handles pressure and avoids sacks will be pivotal factors in the Texans’ plans to build a competitive team around him.

With a major contract decision looming, the Texans must balance optimism about Stroud’s talent and potential against the realities of his injury history and need for improved pass protection. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching Stroud’s performance as the 2024 season unfolds.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Why is C.J. Stroud’s dad locked up?

A. At the age of 13, his father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, admitted to crimes like carjacking and kidnapping. He also faced charges of robbery, avoiding police while driving recklessly, and minor sexual offenses. Since he repeatedly broke the law, Stroud’s father received a 38-year prison sentence.

Q. Is C.J. Stroud Catholic?

A. Personal life. Stroud’s parents are Coleridge and Kimberly Stroud. He has two older brothers and one older sister. Stroud often talks about his Christian beliefs and frequently mentions, “First and foremost I’ve got to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” in interviews.

Q. What happened to C.J. Stroud’s friend?

A. C.J. Stroud’s close friend was performing amazingly last year until he broke his leg. He dedicated a lot of time to recovery, but later got caught in crossfire and was shot during his healing process.

Q. How much does C.J. Stroud make?

A. C.J. Stroud, a rookie from 2023 to 2027, agreed to a 4-year deal with the Houston Texans. The contract totals $36,279,243 with a $23,384,904 signing bonus. The full contract amount is guaranteed, and his average yearly salary is $9,069,811.