DeMeco Ryans Gives Encouraging Injury Update For Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud

Despite making improvements, Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud remains in concussion protocol.

HOUSTON — Houston Texans' quarterback C.J. Stroud was not in attendance during practice Wednesday afternoon. Stroud remains in concussion protocol following their 30-6 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday.

With 6:43 left in the fourth quarter, Stroud took a hard hit by Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams. The hit caused Stroud's head to bounce off the turf of MetLife Stadium. After a few seconds of grimacing in pain, Stroud walked to the locker room and did not return.

Stroud's availability is in doubt for Sunday's Week 15 contest against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium, but coach DeMeco Ryans says he is doing better. 

"C.J. is getting a little bit better," Ryans said. "We will see how the week goes, but he is still in concussion protocol."

Texans quarterback Case Keenum and quarterback C.J. Stroud and quarterback Davis Mills (10) practice handoffs during training camp at the Houston Methodist Training Center / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

The Texans will start either Case Keenum or Davis Mills if Stroud is not available against the Titans. The decision will likely go to Mills, who started 14 games for the Texans last season.

During Houston's season finale, Mills led the team to a 32-31 Week 18 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, where he finished with 298 yards while going 22-for-38 and three touchdowns. Unfortunately, a pair of interceptions during the third quarter hindered his play. However, Mills led the Texans on his first career game-winning drive. 

In the final 2 minutes and 43 seconds, the Texans recorded 83 yards in 14 plays that ended with Mills connecting with tight end Jordan Akins for a game-winning 28-yard touchdown.

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Keenum's last start came in 2021 as a member of the Cleveland Browns and has been inactive each game so far this season. 

"We feel that we have a really strong quarterback room since training camp," Ryans said. "In this league, you never know what will happen. But it's comforting to have three guys who can go out there and play and not miss a beat."