Ranking every NFL team’s quarterback situation ahead of summer offseason program

26. Houston Texans
Projected Starter: CJ Stroud

After what felt like months of C.J. Stroud slander, the Ohio State product ended up being the second-overall pick, exactly what the projections had been saying the entire time. Stroud was considered the “safe” pick amongst the first-round quarterback prospects (which included Will Levis). In two years as a starter, Stroud had 86 touchdowns and 12 interceptions for the Buckeyes. That is ridiculously proficient, especially against the great defenses of the Big Ten.

The only issue with Stroud is his perceived safeness. Anthony Richardson and Bryce Young have a higher ceiling, which might mean they have a chance to do more in their rookie year. They also have better situations, which we will get to in a moment.

Stroud can become something really good with time, but this doesn’t seem like the season to do it. Robert Woods is not the number-one wide receiver anyone wants. Maybe Nico Collins finally hits, but relying on that isn’t great. The Texans have a decent runner in Dameon Pearce, but that’s the end of the top-end talent at the skill positions. Dalton Schultz is okay, but he needs a quarterback who can guide him.

We’re not so sure that’s Stroud out the gate. As for the backups, Davis Mills is a fine player, and even Case Keenum would be fine for a spot start. That’s not the problem here. The issue is Stroud and the team built around him.