C.J. Stroud’s sophomore NFL season fell short of expectations after he earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2023. In 2024, he threw for 3,727 yards and 20 touchdowns, both down from his rookie campaign, while his seven interceptions increased detrimentally. His efficiency also dropped, reflected by a concerning -0.03 EPA per play. Several factors played a role, including injuries to key pass-catchers, ineffective play calling, and a struggling offensive line. Despite these challenges, Stroud’s Houston Texans managed to win the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC South and advanced to the Divisional Round, but his fantasy football value slipped to a low-end QB2 from an initial QB1 draft status.
New Additions Aim to Strengthen Texans’ Offense
The Texans have addressed several weaknesses in Stroud’s supporting cast ahead of 2025. They added receiver Christian Kirk and selected rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Lane from Iowa State to enhance the receiving corps. The team also copes with losses like Stefon Diggs, now with the Patriots after his ACL tear last season, and Tank Dell, who is expected to miss time following a severe knee injury in Week 16. Offensively, Houston brought in Nick Caley as the new coordinator to replace Bobby Slowik, hoping fresh play calling will jumpstart the unit. Additionally, upgrades on the offensive line include new faces such as Aireontae Ersery and Cam Robinson, aiming to provide Stroud better protection.
2025 Fantasy Outlook and Remaining Concerns
Despite the Texans’ moves, Stroud’s fantasy ceiling remains capped, primarily because of his limited rushing production. Nico Collins is projected to continue as his primary target, benefiting from anticipated improvements in play calling under Caley. While these changes offer some upside, uncertainty persists around Stroud’s ability to elevate into QB1 territory. Fantasy managers should approach him cautiously, as he is expected to remain within the QB2 range this season.