What's Happening?
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud was forced to leave the game against the Denver Broncos after sustaining a significant hit from Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine. During the second quarter,
Stroud attempted to slide after running up the middle, but Abrams-Draine's shoulder made contact with Stroud's head, causing it to hit the field. Stroud lay motionless for a brief period before being attended to by medical staff. He was eventually helped off the field, giving a thumbs up to the crowd as he walked to the locker room. Davis Mills replaced Stroud in the game. Prior to the incident, Stroud had completed 6 of 10 passes for 79 yards and had 12 rushing yards on two carries. The Texans, who entered the game with a 3-4 record, are evaluating Stroud for a concussion.
Why It's Important?
The injury to C.J. Stroud is a significant setback for the Houston Texans, who are striving to remain competitive in the playoff race. Stroud, a former Ohio State standout, has been a key player for the Texans, contributing 1,623 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions over seven games this season. The Texans have been plagued by injuries throughout the season, impacting their overall performance and production. Stroud's potential absence due to a concussion could further challenge the team's ability to secure victories and maintain their playoff aspirations. The incident also highlights ongoing concerns about player safety in the NFL, particularly regarding head injuries and concussions.
What's Next?
The Texans will continue to monitor C.J. Stroud's condition and determine his availability for upcoming games. If Stroud is diagnosed with a concussion, he will need to follow the NFL's concussion protocol, which includes a series of steps before he can return to play. This could mean an extended absence, depending on his recovery progress. The team may need to rely on backup quarterback Davis Mills to lead the offense in Stroud's absence. The Texans will also need to address their injury challenges to improve their chances of making the playoffs. The incident may prompt further discussions within the NFL about enhancing player safety measures, particularly concerning hits to the head.
