Houston Texans’ quarterback C.J. Stroud was noticeably absent from Wednesday afternoon’s practice, remaining in concussion protocol after a hard hit by Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams during their recent 30-6 loss to the New York Jets. The impactful hit, occurring with 6:43 left in the fourth quarter, left Stroud grimacing in pain as his head bounced off the turf at MetLife Stadium. While Stroud walked to the locker room after the incident and did not return, coach DeMeco Ryans provided a reassuring update on his condition, stating, “C.J. is getting a little bit better. We will see how the week goes, but he is still in concussion protocol.”
As the Texans prepare for their Week 15 matchup against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium, Stroud’s availability remains uncertain. In the event that Stroud is unable to play, the Texans will turn to either Case Keenum or Davis Mills. Ryans hinted at the likelihood of Mills taking the starting role, given his extensive experience with the team last season. Mills, who started 14 games for the Texans in the previous season, notably led the team to a Week 18 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, completing 22 of 38 passes for 298 yards and three touchdowns. Despite a couple of interceptions in the third quarter, Mills orchestrated a game-winning drive, covering 83 yards in 14 plays and culminating in a 28-yard touchdown connection with tight end Jordan Akins.
On the other hand, Keenum, whose last start was in 2021 as a member of the Cleveland Browns, has been inactive for the entire current season. Coach Ryans expressed confidence in the team’s quarterback depth, emphasizing, “We feel that we have a really strong quarterback room since training camp. In this league, you never know what will happen. But it’s comforting to have three guys who can go out there and play and not miss a beat.” The Texans remain adaptable and prepared, relying on the strength of their quarterback options as they navigate potential challenges in the upcoming game against the Titans.
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