FOOTBALL: Texans GM - QB C.J. Stroud 'isn't going anywhere'

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio reaffirmed his commitment to quarterback C.J. Stroud, calling online trade speculation “moronic” as Stroud enters his fourth NFL season.

"He's our quarterback. He isn't going anywhere. We have a lot of confidence, a lot of belief," Caserio said Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. "I'm glad he's our quarterback."

Stroud, in his third season, started 14 games and led the Texans to a 9-5 record. He completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,041 yards, throwing 19 touchdowns against eight interceptions. He missed three games due to a concussion sustained in Week 9.

Stroud’s struggles in two playoff games, including five interceptions and two lost fumbles, sparked online trade discussions. Caserio dismissed the chatter, emphasizing the ups and downs of the league.

"This league is about ups and downs. Nothing's perfect," he said. "By and large, we're probably going to lose five or six games. There's going to be some good plays, some bad plays, some good games, some bad games. How you bounce back and handle each situation ultimately determines your success and longevity. No lost confidence."

Through 46 career regular-season games—all starts—Stroud has completed 63.8% of his passes for 10,876 yards, 62 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions, compiling a 28-18 record. His standout rookie season in 2023 included 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions, earning him Pro Bowl honors and the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

Houston drafted Stroud second overall out of Ohio State in 2023.

—Field Level Media/Reuters