Watch: C.J. Stroud Throws First Touchdown Since Returning From Injury

Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud is back under center and making highlight throws left and right.

Welcome back, C.J. Stroud. 

The Houston Texans rookie quarterback and favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year, returned to NRG Stadium with a bang in the second quarter, connecting with tight end Brevin Jordan for a 12-yard touchdown to extend the lead by 10 over the Tennessee Titans. 

Houston must win to remain alive in the AFC South division title race. 

FEELIN' IT 😤 pic.twitter.com/0YtjRU4a5C

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) December 31, 2023

Stroud, who led the NFL in passing yards entering Week 14, missed the past two games after suffering a concussion in Week 14's loss to the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Houston turned to Case Keenum for two games, who posted a 1-1 record with mixed results. 

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud / USA Today

When Stroud has played, Houston's offense has been potent. Entering Sunday, Stroud's 20 touchdowns were a Texans' rookie record, as was his 98.7 passer rating. Houston also averaged 23.8 points per game compared to 20.1 points under Keenum and Davis Mills. 

Stroud connected twice with leading receiver Nico Collins for first-down gains. Devin Singletary picked up a fresh set of downs at midfield with a 24-yard run. On first down, Stroud found Jordan open the flats, who turned up-field for the six points. 

Stroud currently has completed 12 of 15 pass attempts for 88 yards and a touchdown. Entering practice, Bobby Slowik said the rookie sensation looked like he hadn't missed a beat since returning to the starting lineup. 

"There's really been no difference in that regard," said Slowik Thursday. "He's doing a great job just progressing through the stages he's at. He's on track, and we'll see where he's at on Sunday. But he's the same as he always has been in practice."

Texans Injury Report: Stroud And Anderson To Start, Greenard Out Against Titans

Stroud's presence alone provides a spark for the Texans at the right time. A win Sunday sets up a chance to claim the division title next week at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis against the Colts, and potentially the first double-digit win season since 2019. 

The Texans will receive the ball to begin the second half.