'Time Is Now': Texans' QB C.J. Stroud Fulfilling Promise Amid Postseason Race

C.J. Stroud has the Houston Texans on the verge of their first postseason appearance since 2019.

HOUSTON — From the moment the Houston Texans made C.J. Stroud the No. 2 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, the former Ohio State prospect promised to take the franchise to new heights.

Eight months later, Stroud has the Texans on the verge of their first playoff berth since 2019 following a 26-3 victory over the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium. He finished the game going 24 of 32 for 213 yards and one touchdown.

Stroud has revitalized the Texans within his first season at the helm in Houston. If he leads the Texans to a Week 18 victory against the Indianapolis Colts, Houston will clinch a spot in the postseason. 

Taking part in the 2023 playoffs started as a farfetched dream. However, Stroud's faith has instilled a new profound belief within the franchise — regardless of the team's youth.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) warms up before playing against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

"The time is now," Stroud said. "It's not next year. It's not the year after that. It's right now. We have the opportunity to control our own destiny. I'm excited to do that."

Stroud said keeping his promise of changing the Texans' horrific fortunes is a testament to him living up to his word as a man.

He never lacked self-confidence when speaking on his ability to live up to the lofty expectations of being held as the Texans' franchise quarterback. Stroud always described himself as "battle-tested" and never believed in pressure. But more importantly, he always believed he could help improve a franchise that had won 11 games over the past three seasons.

The Texans have been on a quarterback carousel since Deshaun Watson demanded a trade in January 2021. 

Three quarterbacks started in place of Watson since his departure. Houston gave Davis Mills a chance to prove his worth as Watson's successor, but a deficient sophomore season ruined his chance. 

Changing Houston's culture wasn't an easy feat. But Stroud is starting to see his confidence coincide with his teammates, coaching staff and fans.

"The work has been put in from this team, from our coaches, our front office, to our players, to our strength staff, to our training room staff, to our chefs in the kitchen, to the redshirts – all around, work has been put in," Stroud said.

"You can see the vibe. I don't know how many fans we had, but I feel like that was the most we put in the stadium probably in a long time. To show up today, I think that was pretty cool to see. I definitely think that we're going to keep this going."

Notebook: Texans Duo 'Blessed' to Be Back vs. Titans

The Texans, Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars are entering Week 18 tied for first place in the AFC South with a 9-7 record. The Jaguars will close the regular season in a match against the Titans. The Colts and Texans will face each other during the season finale at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Texans To Face Colts On Saturday Night For AFC Playoff Berth

Houston could win the division or finish as the No. 6 or No. 7 seed, determined in games around the conference. However, a victory will solidify the Texans' postseason appearance, the first of many promises fulfilled by Stroud.