'That's My Guy!' Texans' Stroud Excited For Laremy Tunsil Return

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud comments on his relationship with tackle Laremy Tunsil and the lineman's return to practice.

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans recently referred to his team not getting a “fair fight” due to self-inflicted wounds. The most unlevel playing field Houston has seen, though, has come via an onslaught of early-season injuries.

Starting right tackle Tytus Howard is yet to play this season. The Texans’ top two centers are on injured reserve. Left guard Kenyon Green's season is over. Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil missed the 31-20 Week 2 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.

The secondary is decimated, too. Safeties Jimmie Ward and Jalen Pitre have missed time. Second-year cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. will be absent with a hamstring injury.

Houston can finally breathe a sigh of relief that rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud’s blindside will be protected soon. Tunsil returned to practice on Wednesday and was active Thursday, too, which bodes well for Sunday’s contest against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Stroud spoke about what Tunsil’s return means for the Texans.

“Laremy is a big part of this offense, not only just by his play but just his presence as a leader,” Stroud said. “His presence of really, really good experience. He’s been in the league a long time and he’s done it at a high level for a long time. So, just another comfort factor not only for myself but for our whole offense.”

StateoftheTexans.com | HoustonTexans.com

Stroud was sacked six times in Week 2, against a Colts pass rush that isn’t particularly imposing. He’s now taken 11 sacks in two weeks to go along with three lost fumbles. Keeping him upright is a priority.

It’s hard to overstate how much having a stalwart left tackle can help an offense function. Stroud was quick to show his appreciation for Tunsil.

“That’s my guy,” he said. “We’re locker roommates and talk all the time. I missed him out there on Sunday, but I’m glad he’s back. Hoping he does his thing because I know he will.”

The two will have their hands full against a Jaguars defense that held the Kansas City Chiefs to 17 points. Houston has won five consecutive contests in Jacksonville, though. Having Tunsil back could play a big role in extending that streak.