'We Have To Block Better': DeMeco Ryans Calls Out Houston Texans Offensive Line After C.J. Stroud Concussion vs. New York Jets

Houston Texans' quarterback C.J. Stroud has entered concussion protocol following a hard hit by New York Jets' Quinnen Williams, and DeMeco Ryans was not happy with the offensive line play in the loss.

Coach DeMeco Ryans announced Sunday afternoon that Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud is in concussion protocol following their 30-6 loss to the New York Jets. 

With 6:43 left in the fourth quarter, Stroud took a hard hit by Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams. 

The hit caused Stroud's head to bounce off the turf of MetLife Stadium. After a few seconds of grimacing in pain, Stroud walked to the locker room and did not return. Third-year quarterback Davis Mills filled the vacancy following Stroud's exit.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud with medical staff after suffering an apparent injury during the second half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium / Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

With no further updates, Ryans said the team will "see how he progresses throughout the week." Stroud was also sacked four times in the loss.

"The hit on C.J., we have to block better," Ryans said. "We cannot allow them to get back there to our quarterback. We have to block better up front."

Stroud was one of several key players who left New York with a major injury. Wide receiver Nico Collins (calf) and linebacker Blake Cashman (hamstring) sustained their respective injuries during the first half. Rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr. also left the game early due to an ankle injury. 

"We lost a lot of guys today," Ryans said. "It was tough losing Blake. He has been one of the guys we have counted on. He stepped in and earned the right to play more snaps. With him going out, that definitely hurt us on defense."

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The Texans had arguably their worst performance of the season. They finished the game with 135 total yards, with Stroud accounting for 91 yards while completing 10 of his 23 pass attempts before exiting with an injury.