Texans QB C.J. Stroud 'Commanding Offense'

Houston Texans receiver Robert Woods believes rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud is "really growing and taking initiative."

When the Houston Texans signed receiver Robert Woods to a two-year contract this offseason, they locked in a reliable veteran for rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud to work with as he transitions to the NFL.

The 31-year-old is hoping to bounce back this season after he hauled in 53 receptions for a career-low 527 receiving yards and only two touchdowns in 2022 with the Tennessee Titans. Nevertheless, he is confident in what he brings to the Houston offense and believes Stroud is on the right path.

"I think he's really growing as a quarterback," Woods said during Thursday's press conference. "(Stroud) is seeing different defenses (during joint practices), different looks and he's commanding the offense."

Woods claimed that Stroud's "command" started just after OTAs, as the rookie was training in Los Angeles and invited the receivers to join him. Woods thought that Stroud taking initiative this early into his career is crucial to the Texans' future success.

"To keep building the team, (Stroud inviting us was) the biggest thing," Woods said. "We get six or seven months (of football) out of the year, but being able to take advantage of those other months to be together and still be a team, I think that helps build a championship culture."

Woods explained that "grasping the offense is a mental challenge," but Stroud has evaded the obstacles well.

"There's often times where C.J. has to turn his back to the defense and still be able to make a precise throw," Woods said. "It's all about trust and precision from him, the line and the receivers. It's all about repetition and being in the right spot at the right time for your quarterback to trust you and let it go."

Stroud will be the starter for Saturday's preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. The 21-year-old looked a bit nervous during last week's preseason opener against the New England Patriots, but now that his feet are a bit wet, hopefully, he'll "command the offense."

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