Though every team wants their draft picks to collaborate and play great, it isn’t as easy. And every team wants to have great draft picks as well, but the Houston Texans got it both. As their two rookie players wreak havoc on the NFL defenses. Only one person is to thank for that: CJ Stroud.
The 22-year-old is having a phenomenal rookie season with the Texans. Considered a favorite to win Rookie of the Year, Stroud has helped the Texans in more ways than one. On his second day with the Texans, in addition to being a phenomenal quarterback, Stroud donned the scout’s hat. And his choice is equally impressive as he is.
CJ Stroud knows how to pick ‘em
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Coming into the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud was a hot property. A second-overall pick, he hit the ground running at supersonic speeds for the Texans. He suggested to his new team that they should WR Tank Dell as well. And the Texans did.
About seven months ago, CJ Stroud was selected by the Houston Texans second overall.
A day later, Stroud told the Texans management to take Tank Dell.
Now, seven months later, Stroud and Dell are one of, if not the best young duo in the entire NFL.
CJ Stroud through 11 games:… pic.twitter.com/tYP9BHa3Pr
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) November 28, 2023
Stroud gained this confidence at the Scouting Combine. This is where the draft hopefuls perform for the teams in the NFL, and Stroud was impressed by the 24-year-old’s catching performance. The QB texted Dell later, saying, “I like how you run routes, I like how you play football”.
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Afterward, he said the same to the Texans staff as well and then said to Dell, “I told them I want you.” And in the third round, the Texans scooped up Dell as well. However, these two rookies must be on their tiptoes if they want to play the postseason in their debut season.
Playoff dreams are alive
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One of the most competitive divisions this season has been the AFC South. With a record of 6-5, the Texans can still make it to the playoffs, despite being third in the division. But they have a tough task ahead of them.
A surging Denver Broncos team is on a 5-game winning streak. It is a must-win game for the Texans, and the dynamic duo of Stroud and Bell must play like the world-beaters that they are. A home game for the Week 13 matchup should be advantageous for the Texans.
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This thriller of a game is scheduled for this Sunday Night Football at NRG Stadium. Kick-off will be at 12:00 PM CST.
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