The Houston Texans are anxiously awaiting an update on quarterback C.J. Stroud, who sustained a significant hit during their Week 9 matchup against the Denver Broncos.
The Impact
Stroud was scrambling in the second quarter when Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine delivered a heavy hit. He remained down on the field for several moments before trainers assisted him to the Texans’ sideline. Following the incident, Davis Mills stepped in to take over for the 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Concussion Evaluation
Stroud was eventually taken to the Texans’ locker room for a concussion evaluation and was listed as questionable to return. During Mills’ time on the field, he completed multiple passes, including an 11-yard throw to Nico Collins that put Houston in a goal-to-go situation. Although Mills showed promise on short notice, he was sacked on that possession, highlighting the Texans’ reliance on Stroud as the linchpin of their offensive scheme.
Davis Mills: Ready to Step Up
Despite the pressure, Mills is a seasoned passer and former third-round draft pick with experience starting 26 of his 40 career games. Before Stroud’s arrival as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 draft, Mills was the Texans’ primary starter. Coming into Week 9, Mills held a 5-19-1 record with a career completion rate of 62.5% on 6,190 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions.
Running Back Injury Setback
To add to their challenges, the Texans suffered another injury setback when promising rookie running back Woody Marks went down. Marks was able to leave the field under his own power and received treatment for a lower back injury in the medical tent on the sidelines. Marks has been the more productive back compared to starter Nick Chubb, bringing a dynamic, dual-threat element to the Texans’ ground game. Unfortunately, the Texans are still without their would-be starter and Pro Bowler Joe Mixon.
Looking Ahead
As of now, Stroud remains the Texans’ biggest injury concern and focal point for the team’s offense. His health will be closely monitored in the coming days, and the Texans will hope for a swift recovery to maintain their offensive momentum moving forward.
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