DeMeco Ryans Reassures on C.J. Stroud’s Health
Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans has expressed his tranquility regarding C.J. Stroud’s limited participation in spring training. According to Ryans, Stroud’s absence from throwing is due to “general soreness” in his shoulder, and there is no cause for concern.
Since the start of voluntary workouts on May 28, Stroud has not thrown during the periods open to the media. His participation has been limited to handing off the ball to running backs during 11-on-11 drills.
There are no concerns with C.J. It’s just a general soreness. We’re taking extra precautions with him. He’ll be ready to play. No concerns on my part.
DeMeco Ryans, Houston Texans Coach
When asked if Stroud will throw during next week’s mandatory minicamp, Ryans offered no details. He also declined to comment on whether the Pro Bowl quarterback underwent any treatment on his shoulder during the offseason.
Stroud enters this season after suffering 52 sacks, the second-most in the NFL, and being pressured on 38.6% of his passing plays, also the second-most in the league.
In the Texans’ playoff loss, Stroud was heavily punished by the Kansas City Chiefs, suffering eight sacks and being pressured on 56% of his pass attempts. This figure is the second-highest in an NFL playoff game since pressures began being recorded in 2009.
To address this issue, the Texans have made significant changes to their offensive line. The team traded left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders in exchange for draft picks, and also traded Kenyon Green to the Philadelphia Eagles for safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. In addition, they released right guard Shaq Mason.To replace these players, who collectively had 41 starts in 2024, Houston has brought in Cam Robinson, Trent Brown, and Laken Tomlinson, as well as acquiring Ed Ingram through a trade. In the draft, the Texans selected Aireontae Ersery with the 48th pick.
Ryans also made changes to the coaching staff to improve Stroud’s protection. He fired offensive line coach Chris Strausser and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik. Cole Popovich, assistant offensive line coach, took over Strausser’s position, and Nick Calley, former passing game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, replaced Slowik.With these moves, Stroud is expected to be better protected, which could help the Texans overcome the divisional phase, something the team has never achieved.
