Texans Camp Notebook: C.J. Stroud Winning Starting QB Job?

During the most recent training camp practices, C.J. Stroud is starting to look more comfortable and efficient as the projected starting quarterback for the Houston Texans.

HOUSTON — Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud is looking more and more like the starter for the Houston Texans in 2023.

The news may not be surprising, given that the franchise took the Ohio State quarterback with the No. 2 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. But the Texans refused to prematurely hand the starting job over to Stroud, and the rookie prospect agreed with that position. 

"I don’t want anything given to me — I want to earn everything," Stroud said. "We’re just focused on getting better. So. right now, it’s just trying to get better for when we play the preseason and then of course [when we] play Baltimore in Week 1."

Stroud spent the first six days of training camp in a close battle for QB1 with Davis Mills. Both quarterbacks began camp splitting reps with the first team. And since the start of OTAs in May, there were moments Mills may have made some bids to remain as the Texans' starting quarterback. 

But Day 9 of training camp at the Houston Methodist Training Center was another hint that the Texans are leaning to Stroud. He had an impressive performance in front of fans, which included finding running back Dameon Pierce and tight end Mason Schreck in the end zone during red-zone drills. 

When Stroud wasn't throwing touchdown passes, he helped the offense move the chains during 11-on-11 play. For the third consecutive practice, Stroud's production led to an efficient performance for the offense while he continued to get the ball out quicker.  

Coach DeMeco Ryans has not named Stroud the Texans' official starter four days before their first preseason game against the New England Patriots. But every snap Stroud has taken since Thursday's practice has been with the first team — despite solid play from Mills. 

"With Stroud, what I've seen has been improvements," Ryans said. "When games began, that is when you can judge who a guy is based on game situations. Practice is one thing. But guys have to go out and get the real competition in the games." 

Tank Dell a top playmaker: Stroud had one of his best practices since camp began and his developed chemistry with the wide receiver corps continues to improve. He connected with several receivers during team activities, but no wideout stood out more than Tank Dell. 

The rookie prospect from the University of Houston finished with four catches. Dell's smaller stature has sometimes erased him in the passing game when a defensive back is playing him close. But during Day 9 of camp, Dell showcased his skill set to create separation. 

Dell was open for each catch. His best play came early during 11-on-11 play when he recorded a reception from Mills on an open dig route for 19 yards.

"What I've seen from Tank (are) some exciting playmaking abilities," Ryans said. "I've seen him make some tough catches. He is just open a lot. It's his ability to run routes and be precise in where he needs to get to and find different ways to get open. He has been fun to watch."

Will Anderson Jr. continues to cause disruption: The defense had a more subdued night when compared to the previous three practices, but Will Anderson Jr. remained a significant disruptor on the defensive front.

Anderson played a role in helping the defense stop the run on several occasions, while his presence created pressure on the offense. Anderson's best play of the night came when he rushed up the B gap to record a sack on Stroud. The play marked the second consecutive practice he recorded a sack on the presumed starter under center. 

"For Will, that is what we saw in college," Ryans said. "He is not a flash player. He is a consistent player. He is consistently in the backfield. He is consistently making plays. He has been the same guy. A disruptor causing havoc."

QUICK HITS

• The Texans had two additional injuries Saturday night. Offensive lineman D.J. Scaife sustained a right leg injury and was carted off the field. Tytus Howard left practice early during 11-on-11 play after an apparent hand injury. Ryans did not have any updates when speaking to the media after practice.

• Scott Quessenberry was in attendance after tearing his ACL and MCL during Day 7 of camp. Quessenberry watched the first half of practice on the sideline. He was on crutches with a hefty brace around his knee.

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You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24

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