KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson reports C.J. Stroud “is dealing with a minor shoulder muscle issue.”
It was reported earlier last week that Stroud wasn’t throwing at OTAs, but head coach DeMeco Ryans dismissed any concerns over his QB by saying the team has players “on different schedules.” Now, according to Wilson, league sources have told him Stroud is dealing with a minor shoulder issue that “isn’t regarded as long-term,” while adding that he “could return to increased activity at practice as soon as next week.” The 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year saw a bit of a sophomore regression last season, throwing for 3,727-20-12 in 17 games, and saw his offensive coordinator get fired at the end of the year. With a new system being implemented, it would make sense for Stroud to be on the field sooner rather than later, but the Texans clearly don’t want to put their franchise quarterback anywhere near harm’s way at this stage in the offseason. For now, this sounds like a minor issue, but it’ll be something to keep in mind if his absence becomes longer than expected.