The Texans didn’t make quarterback C.J. Stroud the second overall pick in the draft to not play him. He’ll surely play from the start of the season, even if the Texans have yet to tell it to the world. The latest sign comes from the announcement on Thursday by coach DeMeco Ryans that Stroud will start Saturday’s preseason game against the Dolphins. Stroud handled two drives last Thursday against the Patriots, throwing an interception and taking a couple of hits. The goal is to get him the reps necessary to get the game to slow down, so that he’ll reach his ceiling (whatever it might be) sooner than later. Behind Stroud are Davis Mills and Case Keenum. Stroud is clearly the future. He’s also the present.
It’s going to be a long season for Stroud, although I think the franchise is looking up for the first time in a while.
With the league struggling to find good starting O-Linemen then it would be pointless to have him line up behind the backups if you want to really see what you have in him. Sensible decision.
