C.J. Stroud is having a blessed year as the new star of the Houston Texans, but the quarterback says that his devotion is what drives him
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is having an almost miraculous rookie season, as he’s taken The League by storm with his electric offensive numbers. But the second overall pick in the draft has constantly stayed grounded in his success by consistently leaning on his faith. The 22-year-old star stays humble by giving grace to God when discussing his achievements.
For a franchise that’s been longing for a leader, the kid from Ohio State has displayed a special level of maturity under center. Stroud has almost immediately turned around the Texans’ fortunes. After only registering three wins last year, they’ve become legitimate contenders in the AFC South.
Following their 30-27 win over the Bengals, Houston is now 6-4 and hot on the heels of the division-leading Jaguars (7-3). And on the year, C.J. Stroud has had unprecedented success for a rookie. He has passed for 2.962 yards, with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions thus far, with a sterling 99.3 Quarterback Rating.
Following their hard-fought win over Cincy, Stroud was questioned during the post-game press conference about his ability to remain calm in pressure situations. His answer came from his faith and from his soul.
“For me, it’s a lot of prayer,” C.J. Stroud said. “A lot of just knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I can’t handle. I don’t deserve His grace and His mercy, but He still gives it to me, and I love Him for that … I think God made me like that.”
It wasn’t an unusual answer for the young player, who hasn’t been afraid to speak his mind when it comes to his beliefs.
“I thank God for putting that … in me because that’s something that you need playing in this position, in this league.”
Stroud has repeatedly stated that his religious beliefs are what has helped him and his family struggle through some extremely difficult times. His father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, is serving a 38-year prison sentence after pleading guilty in 2015 to carjacking, kidnapping, robbery, and misdemeanor sexual battery.
Still, C.J. Stroud never looks down; he always looks up. And that’s probably a big part of his success in his rookie season – his unwavering faith. When asked openly if he will continue to spread that message, he replied with a smile:
“I’ll do that,” C.J. Stroud said. “I think that’s what God wants.”
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