HOUSTON, TX - As the Houston Texans prepare for their second consecutive AFC Championship game appearance, quarterback C.J. Stroud is set to make his highly anticipated return. The 24-year-old quarterback, who missed the team's Divisional Round victory due to a lower-body injury sustained in Week 15 against the Cleveland Browns, spoke to reporters for the first time since being sidelined.
"It was tough to watch from the sidelines, especially knowing what was at stake," Stroud said after practice. "But I'm grateful to be back. I've been working hard with our trainers to make sure I'm ready. I wouldn't be out here if I weren't."
Stroud's presence brings immediate energy to an already potent Texans offense. Before the injury, the quarterback was having an MVP-caliber season, completing 72.1% of his passes for 3,158 yards, 34 touchdowns, and just 3 interceptions in 14 games. He also added 89 rushing yards, showing his ability to make plays with his legs when needed.
Head coach Sean Nguyen expressed confidence in Stroud's readiness. "C.J. has put in the work and looks sharp," Nguyen said. "He's the leader of this offense, and his teammates feed off his confidence and poise."
The injury's specifics remain a mystery - the Texans never officially disclosed the details, only calling it a "lower body injury." Stroud admitted the uncertainty surrounding his status added to the frustration. "It was a lot of waiting and seeing how my body would respond," he said. "I'm just glad it's behind me now. My focus is on the Raiders and making sure we're ready to take that next step."
The Texans’ offense will need Stroud at his best against a Raiders defense that led the league in points and yards allowed per game this season. Stroud knows the challenge ahead. "We're facing a great defense," he said. "But we've been here before. We know what it takes, and we're ready to go out and execute."
Kickoff for the AFC Championship showdown between the Texans and Raiders is set for this week at NRG Stadium, with a trip to the 2K OLF Super Bowl on the line.
