Texans QB C.J. Stroud dealing with a 'minor shoulder muscle' issue at OTAs
C.J. Stroud hasn't practiced since the start of organized team activities, and now fans have a better understanding of why.
According to KPRC 2 Sports' Aaron Wilson, Stroud is dealing with a minor shoulder muscle issue. The injury isn't regarded as a long-term issue and it is expected that Stroud could return to increased activity at practice as soon as next week.
Since OTAs are a more relaxed feel than training camp in August, the Texans are taking caution with the former NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year as he begins to prep for a breakout third season. With Stroud sidelined, backup quarterback Davis Mills has seen most of the reps with the first- and second-team while Kedon Slovis has worked with the third-team.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans downplayed Stroud's activity level on Wednesday and emphasized players' routines will vary widely day to day. First-year offensive coordinator Nick Caley addressed the former No. 2 overall pick's absence, but also mentioned he wasn't concerned with the limitations during drills.
'He's locked in every step of the way,' Caley said Friday afternoon. 'No concerns whatsoever. I know DeMeco has already hit on this. Everybody has a specific routine relative to their own routine, specific to whatever. Whether it's football, whether it's athletic training, etc., he's doing a great job and he's out here and he's working.'
After a sophomore slump, Stroud enters Year 3 with a chance to cash in. He's up for a new deal this offseason and could become one of the league's highest-paid passers with a promising campaign.
The former Ohio State Heisman runner-up is being tasked with more responsibility and trust to orchestrate the Texans' offense under Caley. He'll be allowed to maked adjustments before the snap and change the play call or audible a new protection scheme with Caley calling the shots.
'It's like anything else,' Caley said. 'The more you can do, the better off you're going to end up being. He wants to have the ability to be able to have control. When you're at that position there is a lot of great value in being able to fix problems that come up or unscouted looks that come up."
The Texans return for OTA workouts on Tuesday at the Methodist Training Center.
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