Texans Rookie C.J. Stroud Impresses in Final Preseason Game, Secures Starting QB Role
The Texans’ rookie quarterback, C.J. Stroud, showcased his impressive skills in the final preseason game against the Saints. With starters limited in playing time, it was an opportunity for young talents like Stroud to shine. And he did not disappoint.
Despite his paltry statistics of going 2-4 for 16 yards and one touchdown, these numbers do not accurately reflect Stroud’s performance. He could have easily finished the game with a perfect 4 for 4 if not for a couple of dropped passes from his receivers. Stroud displayed accuracy and potential, particularly with a deep sideline throw to Nico Collins and an on-the-move pass to Robert Woods.
As a result of his impressive showing, Stroud has secured the starting quarterback role for the Texans going into the 2023 season. The first-round pick from Ohio State has proven himself capable and ready to lead the team from Week 1 onwards.
Moreover, Stroud will have a reliable weapon by his side in second-year running back Dameon Pierce. Pierce, who missed the latter part of the 2022 season due to injury, showed great promise as he sought out contact and contributed to Houston’s success in the game against the Saints. With 30 yards on five carries, Pierce demonstrated both power and efficiency, setting up the Texans’ first touchdown drive. Coach DeMeco Ryans has indicated that Pierce can be a workhorse, and his performance on Sunday only reaffirmed that belief.
On the Saints’ side, veteran quarterback Jameis Winston took the field in place of Derek Carr, who was resting. Winston displayed his usual ability to throw the ball into tight windows but managed to avoid trouble thanks in part to the presence of tight end Jimmy Graham. Graham, who returned to the team in July at 36 years old, had a strong performance against the Texans, contributing three catches, 34 yards, and a touchdown. His performance likely secured his spot on the team’s regular-season roster.
The Saints also gave fourth-round rookie Jake Haener a chance to showcase his skills at quarterback. Haener, a prospect from Fresno State, displayed his scrambling ability with a 26-yard run and made some positive completions on the run for first downs. However, his performance in the passing game was inconsistent, and he threw a late interception to Texans safety Grayland Arnold while attempting a risky throw into triple coverage in the end zone. Haener’s target on the interception was second-year tight end Lucas Krull, who made a strong case for himself with over 100 receiving yards in the game.
With the final preseason game concluded, both the Saints and Texans have to trim their 90-man offseason rosters to 53 players before the regular season kickoff on September 7th.
In conclusion, C.J. Stroud’s impressive showing solidifies his position as the Texans’ starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Alongside him, Dameon Pierce proves to be a force to be reckoned with in the backfield. On the Saints’ side, Jameis Winston and Jimmy Graham performed well, while Jake Haener showed promise despite some inconsistencies. The regular season is right around the corner, and both teams will have to make crucial decisions regarding their final rosters.
