The Houston Texans looked like a team ready to become a powerhouse not so long ago.
While they’re still a very good team, that’s not necessarily the case.
Notably, a lot of that has had to do with C.J. Stroud.
The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year has regressed tremendously from his impressive first year in the league.
Perhaps the rest of the league has caught up with him, and the tape exposed his flaws.
With that in mind, NFL analyst Greg Cosell pointed out the most significant area of improvement for him at this moment.
On the Ross Tucker Podcast, Cosell argued that Stroud needed to get better when the pocket gets squeezed, as his once-elite ball placement has regressed this season.
“He's going to have to get better at being able to function when the pocket gets squeezed and muddied and noisy, it's impacted his ball placement, which was pristine as a rookie. “@GregCosell on where C.J. Stroud needs to improve: pic.twitter.com/yXLNvqYS6s
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) January 4, 2025
Stroud looked like a superstar in the making after his first season in the league.
He was even caught on tape trying to mentor Caleb Williams after they squared up earlier in the season.
He hasn’t been a bad quarterback by any means this season, but he’s been quite mortal, ranking close to the middle of the pack.
His decision-making and ball placement haven’t been nearly as proficient as last year.
He used to be elite at handling the football, but despite having an improved supporting cast, he’s forced many throws this season.
Granted, his offensive line has also done little to help his case, but he will need to work hard this offseason to return to his dominant ways.
NEXT: C.J. Stroud's Old QB Ranking List Is Going Viral
