Texans Camp Notebook: C.J. Stroud Adjusting To High-Level Pressure

C.J. Stroud is winning the quarterback battle against Davis Mills, but his play during training camp is showcasing that the rookie from Ohio State is still getting accustomed to NFL play.

HOUSTON — Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud hasn't had the most pleasing start to training camp. But to improve his play, Stroud has taken additional time away from NRG Stadium to enhance his understanding of the Houston Texans' playbook while adjusting his game to the NFL. 

"A lot of late nights studying, a lot of early mornings studying — just really trying to get this thing and know it like the back of my hand," Stroud said. "It’s a different style than what I’ve played in college, but a lot of similarities to it, as well."

Sunday at the Houston Methodist Training Center was Day 4 of training camp for the Texans. Stroud's outing was similar to the previous three days, where he split first-team reps with quarterback Davis Mills.

There were moments Stroud appeared to have the upper hand over Mills. He made several plays downfield to connect with his targeted receivers, which featured a connection with rookie wideout Tank Dell during 11-on-11 play. 

He is winning the quarterback battle against Mills. But Stroud's decision-making is a work in progress.

There have been moments during team activities where Stroud would hold on to the ball too long. As a result, the play would end with an incomplete pass. ... Or for the first time since the start of camp, an interception. 

Stroud said coach DeMeco Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke intentionally put defensive pressure on their quarterbacks in practice. Although it has led to early mistakes on the practice field, Stroud believes their strategy is a great way for him to get accustomed to the NFL.

"Just trying to get better at calling plays in the huddle, operation, cadence, drops, footwork, eyes — having the right eyes and the right feet," Stroud said. "My feet [are] tied to my eyes, so really everything. It’s been an adjustment, and I just feel like I’m just getting better and better."

Another great day for the defense: Sunday marked the third day since the start of camp that the defense has been one step ahead of the offense. The secondary continued to make plays on the ball, while the defensive line's assertiveness has given them the edge in the trenches. 

Defensive lineman Jerry Hughes has been impressed by the production of the defense. But despite the talent, Hughes credited communication as the biggest key to the defense's success.

"How vocal everyone is — he’s got everyone on the same page," Hughes said. "When you have a players head coach, he’s able to break it down for us and make it easy for us to understand it. Just how quick guys are picking it up, and they’re not afraid to be vocal because they’re confident."

Hughes said guys on all three levels are ball-hawking, trying to punch the ball loose each time the defense steps onto the field. And indeed, during 11-on-11, the defense added two more takeaways to their camp total. 

Linebacker Blake Cashman recorded the first interception from a pass attempt from Davis Mills. A few drives later, cornerback Steven Nelson registered his second interception of camp. Nelson was able to record the takeaway by winning his one-on-one battle against Mason Schreck. The defense has now recorded five takeaways since Wednesday.

John Metchie III returns to a solid day: After missing Friday's practice, John Metchie III returned to camp and had another solid day. He made a few catches during 11-on-11 and is establishing himself as one of the most reliable receivers.

Metchie's play during camp has been impressive, given that the 23-year-old wideout hasn't played football since December 2021, the night he tore his ACL in the SEC championship game against Georgia. ... and since then winning his battle with leukemia.

"I’ve seen Metchie play a lot of football at Alabama — seen him make a lot of plays, and that’s who he is," Ryans said. "He’s an inspiration to me. To see John Metchie and what he’s been through and to see his attitude each and every day, he’s uplifting everyone’s spirit around here. I just love that kid and he’s doing an excellent job for us."

QUICK HITS

- Safety Jimmie Ward returned to practice after sitting out Friday morning. Defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins and cornerback Kendall Sheffield participated in team activities for the first time since camp began Wednesday morning.

- Sunday's training camp practice ended with a few injuries. Tight end Dalton Schultz left practice following a collision with Ward. Ryans said during his media availability that Schultz will be fine. Fullback Troy Hairston left the field in a cart despite finishing practice. There was no update as to why Hairston could not walk off the field on his own will. 

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