Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud's Plan Amid MVP Chatter? 'Just Keep Grinding'

Despite entering the MVP conversation, Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud refuses to get complacent.

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans are quickly becoming a well-respected team, and much of their admiration is due to the play of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud.

The former Ohio State prospect has put the Texans in the hunt to make their first playoff appearance since 2019. And the success has catapulted Stroud into MVP consideration.

Stroud has been flattered by the high recognition over the previous week, but his top priority will remain on his craft and the success of the team.

C.J. Stroud rolls out in the second quarter of the NFL Week 10 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Texans :: Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

"Just keep working — It’s cool to have people recognize some of the things that I’ve done or – as a team – we’ve done," Stroud said. "I just really want to keep getting better and better and keep that chip on my shoulder and just keep grinding."

"I just want more. I want to do better. I want to be as complete as I can. This game is a process, and I know every week I have to bring it. I’m not being treated as a rookie anymore, so people are bringing their ‘A-game’ because they want to knock me off or whatever they think."

Due to Stroud's play, the Texans are entering their Week 11 contest against the Arizona Cardinals with a 5-4 record. So far this season, Stroud has completed 61.6  percent of his passes for 2,626 yards and 15 touchdowns. 

'Love Me or Hate Me!' C.J. Stroud Reacts to MVP Buzz

He recorded his second career game-winning drive Sunday in the 30-27 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. 

Stroud led the Texans on their final offensive drive that led to 55 yards in the final 1:33 of the fourth quarter, which ended in a game-winning 38-yard field goal by kicker Matt Ammendola.