'Season-Ending? No!' C.J. Stroud Concussion Update As DeMeco Ryans Avoids 'Shock'

'Season-Ending? No!' Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud Concussion Update As Coach DeMeco Ryans Avoids 'Shock'

HOUSTON — Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud was one of several players absent during Wednesday's practice due to a concussion, and all indications are the head injury will cause Stroud to miss his second consecutive game, this time on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Along with the likelihood on Wednesday here inside team headquarters came a "shock'' of sorts when the possibility of the rookie sensation's issue being "season-ending'' was broached.

“Why you say that? Don’t shock me like that,” Ryans said with a laugh when quizzed by a reporter. “We’re going through the protocol. Each person, each concussion is different. Each person takes a different time to heal. The most important thing is making sure C.J. is healthy. 

"When he’s ready to go, he’ll be ready to go and I’ll let you guys know.’

Coach DeMeco Ryans said Stroud is "doing better" but will remain in the concussion protocol.

Texans' C.J. Stroud against the Denver Broncos on Dec. 3 at NRG Stadium / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Stroud sustained the concussion during the Texans' 30-6 loss to the New York Jets on Dec. 17.

With 6:43 left in the fourth quarter, Stroud took a hit by Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams. Following the tackle, Stroud's head bounced off the turf of MetLife Stadium. After a few seconds of grimacing in pain, Stroud walked to the locker room and did not return.

The injury forced Stroud to miss his first career game amid the Texans' 19-16 victory over the Tennessee Titans Sunday afternoon. So far this season, Stroud has completed 62.4 percent of his passes for 3,631 yards, 20 touchdowns, and five interceptions across 13 games.

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With Stroud out for a second game, veteran quarterback Case Keenum is likely to start during their Week 16 contest against the Browns. Keenum started in Stroud's absence to lead the Texans to an overtime victory at Nissan Stadium by throwing for 229 yards while going 23 of 36 with one passing touchdown.

Other notable players not in attendance during practice were Will Anderson Jr. (ankle), Nico Collins (calf) and Blake Cashman (hamstring).