Texans Draft: Biggest Winner & Loser from CJ Stroud pick

The Houston Texans selected quarterback CJ Stroud with the No. 2 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud immediately becomes the face of the Texans' franchise and provides the team an identity that has been sorely lacking.  Stroud was widely considered one of the top prospects in this class, and spent much of the offseason […]

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© Adam Cairns/Columbus | 2023 Mar 23

The Houston Texans selected quarterback CJ Stroud with the No. 2 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud immediately becomes the face of the Texans' franchise and provides the team an identity that has been sorely lacking. 

Stroud was widely considered one of the top prospects in this class, and spent much of the offseason as the favorite to go first overall. After the Panthers traded for the No. 1 pick, Bryce Young became an overwhelming favorite to go first. That ended up being exactly what happened, and the Texans selected Stroud. 

Here's a quick breakdown of how Stroud projects as a pro from A to Z Sports' draft analyst Tyler Browning:

Incredibly accurate on all three levels of the field. Is able to throw with not just accuracy, but precision and make throws go to whichever shoulder he wants. Doesn’t posses elite arm talent, but has enough to make any throw he would need to in the NFL.Weighed in at 6’3, 215 at the NFL combine. Ideally, he would be heavier, but it is of no immediate concern for Stroud. Saved his best performance for his last performance. Before Georgia, I would have labeled him as hesitant to run, but has shown he can do so if forced. Usually risk adverse, but there was one throw against Utah where he threw across his body back into the MOF, that should have been picked off. Have seen him pull back throws that could be risky and get to his check-down. Willing to eat sacks if there is immediate pressure. Is mobile enough to escape the pocket and extend plays. Remains accurate on the run. Has shown he can remain accurate off-platform.

Biggest Winner: Texans' offensive weapons 

Even before the Stroud selection, the Texans' offense looked much improved compared to a year ago. The team has added receivers Noah Brown, Robert Woods, and Steven Sims, and tight end Dalton Schultz. Stroud will certainly not be hurting for weapons in his rookie campaign. 

Also, do not forget about John Metchie III. After missing his rookie season due to a devastating cancer diagnosis, the receiver is finally healthy enough to play in 2023. 

Biggest Loser: Davis Mills 

Well, I believe it's safe to say that the Davis Mills era is over in Houston. While Mills had some flashes, it was clear he was not the future under center in Houston. 

Additionally, the Texans brought in veteran backup Case Keenum this offseason, so unless the team carries three QBs, it seems like Mills will not be on the roster at all. 

Mills will likely be a backup for another team in 2023. That's a big fall after being a starter for two seasons. 

This is what the Houston Texans' quarterback room looks like right now:

  • CJ Stroud 
  • Case Keenum 
  • Davis Mills 
  • EJ Perry