Texans OC have 1 request for CJ Stroud ahead of 2024 season

Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik discussed Stroud’s rise and veteran mentality last week during an appearance on the Green light Podcast with former NFL defensive end Chris Long. Slowik was very complimentary of Stroud, noting the quarterback’s drive to improve and “be the best at everything.” Stroud, according to Slowik, is also a voracious film watcher. That seems to come at a price.

“(Stroud is) a competitor and a tireless worker, to the point where he probably needs more sleep, really,” Slowik said. “He’ll watch film, and it’s not even game-planning time. We’re talking about training camp right now. He’s texting receivers, coaches, everybody. From film or clips of how he wants to make adjustments, things he’s thinking about during games.

“And it’s like 11:30, man. Go to sleep. Go to sleep CJ, come on man.”

I’m not sure Stroud will heed Slowik’s advice, at least based on last year’s output.

The Houston quarterback wasn’t just the NFL’s 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year. He was one of the best quarterbacks in all of football, capable of both protecting the ball and taking deep shots downfield. Only two quarterbacks threw for more yards per attempt last season, and Stroud was the only quarterback in football to pair 20-plus touchdowns with five or fewer interceptions. Stroud followed up his stellar regular-season run with a solid playoff debut, throwing for three touchdowns in a win over the Cleveland Browns.

Stroud entered the 2023 season with many questions about his NFL potential and the roster around him. Those questions will be answered in 2024. Stroud is now surrounded by a three-headed monster at wide receiver, as well as a Pro Bowl-caliber running back. A playoff appearance is expected. A Super Bowl berth isn’t completely out of reach. What a difference a year can make.

The preseason opener in Canton, Ohio, is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. CT.