Texans Coach Optimistic About QB's Growth

DeMeco Ryans sees bright future for C.J. Stroud in Year 4

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:03pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic energy of the sport.Texans coach DeMeco Ryans sees a bright future for quarterback C.J. Stroud after a challenging 2025 season.Houston Today

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed excitement about the continued development of quarterback C.J. Stroud heading into the 2026 NFL season. Despite a difficult end to the 2025 campaign, Ryans believes Stroud has made significant strides and is poised for a breakout year.

Why it matters

The Texans are looking to build around Stroud as their franchise quarterback, so his progression is crucial to the team's long-term success. Ryans' positive outlook on Stroud's growth signals the organization's confidence in the young signal-caller.

The details

Stroud, the 2nd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, had an up-and-down sophomore season in 2025. After a promising start, the Texans struggled down the stretch, finishing the year 6-10. However, Ryans believes Stroud has learned from those experiences and is primed to take a big leap forward.

  • The Texans finished the 2025 season with a 6-10 record.
  • Stroud was the 2nd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

The players

DeMeco Ryans

The head coach of the Houston Texans.

C.J. Stroud

The Texans' starting quarterback, who was drafted 2nd overall in 2023.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really excited to see C.J.'s growth and development heading into this next season. He's made a lot of strides, and I think he's poised for a big year.”

— DeMeco Ryans, Head Coach, Houston Texans

The takeaway

The Texans are banking on Stroud to be their long-term answer at quarterback, and Ryans' optimism about the young passer's future is an encouraging sign for the team's outlook heading into the 2026 season.