Texans QBs Coach Jerrod Johnson Helping C.J. Stroud 'Build' For Future
HOUSTON — C.J. Stroud played two drives during the Houston Texans' preseason victory over the New England Patriots.
Whether fair or not, the rookie quarterback has faced criticism for his performance. But for Texans' quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson, Thursday's game at Gillette Stadium was a chance for Stroud to build a foundation while experiencing the professional level.
"I thought it was a good debut," Johnson said. "For me, our end game is being ready for the regular season. You want him to go through that first game to get feedback. There was a lot of first that we wanted to get out of the way in order to build."
Johnson believes Stroud did good things against the Patriots but acknowledged a few plays he would like to take back. Stroud's biggest mishap came at the 11:36 mark of the first quarter.
With the ball on the Texans' own 25, Stroud threw an interception to New England's Jalen Mills to end his first series. His ability to learn from mistakes has impressed Houston's coaching staff and players. Stroud finished the game going 2-of-4 for 13 yards and a sack.
"To have that ability this early in his career, it is a testament to his work ethic and how much he cares," Johnson said. "He loves to watch film. He is always asking to see more and do more. As a coach, that is what you are looking for in your quarterback. Someone who cares and tries not to make the same mistake twice."
Johnson says it's a privilege to hold the title as Stroud's first position coach. He takes pride in helping a prominent prospect build a career foundation.
Adjusting to the NFL comes with several challenges for a rookie quarterback. But to help with Stroud's development, Johnson has found support from the diversity of the position group.
"I think diversity is good in any setting," Johnson said. "It gives two different perspectives. Like Case [Keenum]. He has seen a lot. He has been through a lot. He is great for us and what we are trying to do.
"He brings up things and asks tough questions to help get to the details of our system. The other guys in the room listen to him when he speaks — same with Davis [Mills]. C.J. can sit and listen to help build his own perspective from that. As coaches, we like to take input from everyone in the room to put our best foot forward."
The Texans hired Johnson following the acquisition of DeMeco Ryans in February. The Texas A&M alumnus arrived in Houston after a one-year stint with the Minnesota Vikings. He worked as the assistant quarterbacks coach.
Kirk Cousins had one of his best seasons working alongside Johnson. The Vikings went 13-4, while Cousins completed 65.9 percent of his passes for 4,547 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.
For Johnson, Stroud's next task is to build upon his debut. He will have a chance to improve his play during Saturday's preseason contest against the Miami Dolphins. Johnson understands the hype surrounding Stroud as a high-profile rookie prospect. But regardless of Stroud's fanfare, Johnson's goal will remain the same.
"I am very thankful to be in this position — I do not take it for granted," Johnson said. "My whole deal is to come in every day to get these guys to be the best version of yourself. It is my job to give my best to them, and hopefully, they could put their best foot forward."
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