Houston Texans QB CJ Stroud reveals how Ohio State helped him

The Ohio State Buckeyes have produced many talented NFL players in recent history, but none receive more attention and hype than Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud.

Stroud took the NFL by storm in the 2023 season as a rookie. Not only did he debunk the popular notion that Ohio State quarterbacks don’t adapt to the NFL, but he’s now one of the favorites to win the MVP award in the upcoming 2024 season.

During his rookie season last year, Stroud played in 15 games, completing 63.9 percent of his pass attempts for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also rushed for 167 yards and three touchdowns.

Not only is Stroud considered an MVP candidate this season, but the Texans are considered a potential Super Bowl contender.

With great expectations comes great pressure. Stroud knows the NFL target is on his team’s back. However, he is equipped to handle that pressure and the target on his back.

In a recent quote, Stroud explained how playing for Ohio State helped him handle high-pressure situations and high expectations.

“It’s not going to be easy. It’s going to be harder. We have a target on our backs this year. That’s the way you should want it and that’s what I’m used to playing at Ohio State. I’m just really honored and blessed to have teammates that want that challenge and want to come out here and play. This Texans team is not for everybody. It’s tough out here and we’re fortunate to play a game that we’ve been playing since we were kids. I really think all the expectations, we just work, it’ll all work itself out. History is already made.”

It’s exactly the kind of comment Houston wants to hear from its young star quarterback.

Stroud also spoke about the solid offense that has been built around him. He called it a “five-headed monster,” led by himself, Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, Joe Mixon, Dalton Schultz and Nico Collins.

“It’s a five-headed monster. It’s really cool to just have a bunch of options.”

That being said, the 2024 season is almost here. Training camp is starting all over the NFL. Stroud knows all eyes are on him and the Texans, but he’s ready for the challenge.

Expect to see the former Ohio State star use the experience he gained with the Buckeyes to his advantage. He is more than capable of rising to the occasion and living up to the hype in 2024.