Texans' Trent Brown shares strong belief in CJ Stroud

Texans' Trent Brown shares strong belief in CJ Stroud originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Following a brutal 2025 postseason from CJ Stroud, many fans have called for the Texans to reconsider their trust in their quarterback. However, Texans star offensive tackle Trent Brown believes that there is nothing to worry about.

On The Set with Terron Armstead, Brown said, "I expect C.J. to get better. I think C.J. is going to come in and be even more of a leader than he's been. I think his approach will be different."

After his rookie season, Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud looked like the next big thing. The former Ohio State Buckeye produced 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns, leading his Texans to an AFC South division title in 2023. With this promising debut, Stroud was named the Offensive Rookie of the Year. The future was looking extremely bright for the youngster. However, since then, things have gone off the rails.

The catalyst of Stroud's downfall was a brutal postseason performance this past season. Over two playoff games in 2025, CJ Stroud posted a brutal five interceptions, five fumbles, and a 51.9 completion percentage. The 24-year-old quarterback looked rattled and a shell of his rookie season self. The poor display ruined what was an excellent showing from the defense.

While Stroud is at no risk of losing his job in 2026, the Texans will have to elevate their quarterback room before they offer Stroud a payday. With his 5th-year option picked up by Houston, the Texans will have two years to decide whether or not they will pay him.

The Texans hope that Trent Brown's belief is real and their star quarterback can return to form quickly.