Texans QB C.J. Stroud Ruled Out for Sunday’s Game vs. Browns

The Rookie of the Year candidate will miss another crucial game as Houston shoots for a playoff spot.

As they battle for a playoff spot, the Houston Texans will be without their starting quarterback for Sunday’s tough AFC test against the Cleveland Browns.

Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, rookie C.J. Stroud has been ruled out for a second straight game after suffering a concussion against the New York Jets in Week 14.

With Stroud out, Case Keenum will start his second straight game for the Texans. Last week, he threw for 229 yards, one touchdown and one interception in a 19–16 overtime win against the Tennessee Titans.

With the win, Houston moved to 8–6 on the season. The team is currently tied atop the AFC South with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts, though they would be on the outside looking in of the playoff picture if the season ended today, making Sunday’s game against the 9–5 Browns—another potential wild-card team—very important.

Stroud suffered an injury two weeks ago during the Texans’ loss to the Jets :: Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports

Stroud has been extremely impressive as a rookie. The former No. 2 pick has completed 62.4% of his throws, tossing for 3,631 yards, 20 touchdowns and just five interceptions this year.

Sunday’s game between the Texans and Browns in Houston kicks off at 1 p.m. ET.