Texans’ C.J. Stroud has limited practice as rookie QB works way back from concussion, eyes Week 17 return

C.J. Stroud returned to a limited practice on Wednesday for the first time since suffering a concussion during the Texans‘ Week 14 loss to the New York Jets, and head coach DeMeco Ryans was pleased to see his rookie quarterback back on the field and making progress.

“Encouraging to have C.J. back at practice,” DeMeco Ryans said, via KPRC in Houston. “We don’t want him taking another hit. We have to make sure we’re protecting him and make sure we’re moving forward with efficiency.”  

Ryans said having Stroud back out there and doing well “lifts everybody’s spirits,” via ESPN.

Stroud was enjoying a standout rookie season prior to getting injured. The former Ohio State quarterback has 20 touchdowns against just five interceptions this season. He broke two rookie passing records earlier this season — most yards passing in a game (470) and the most attempts to start a career without an interception (186). 

Stroud made NFL history in Week 9 when he joined Ben Roethlisberger and Y.A. Tittle on a very short list of QBs who’ve thrown for 470 yards with five touchdowns and no picks in a game. 

Houston (8-7) has split its last two games without Stroud in the lineup. The Texans defeated the Titans in overtime in Week 15 before losing a 36-22 decision this past weekend against the Cleveland Browns. Veteran Case Keenum started in place of Stroud in both games. 

The Texans are currently just one spot out of the AFC’s final wild-card spot. Houston will face the team that is currently holding onto the seventh spot in the AFC standings, the Colts, in Indianapolis in Week 18.