Texans QB Stroud ruled out with concussion after hit from Broncos’ Abrams-Draine

C.J. Stroud is ruled out of the Texans' game against the Broncos due to a concussion sustained in the second quarter.

Why it matters: This injury raises concerns about player safety and the ongoing challenges of concussion management in the NFL, particularly for young quarterbacks like Stroud who are critical to their teams' success.

Stroud, the Texans' starting quarterback, suffered a concussion following a hit from Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine during the second quarter. Prior to his exit, Stroud had completed 6 of 10 passes for 79 yards, successfully leading the Texans into field goal range on two separate drives. The injury adds a layer of complexity to Houston's offensive strategy as they prepare to rely on backup Davis Mills for the remainder of the game.

What’s new: This marks Stroud's second concussion in a span of less than a year, having previously suffered one against the New York Jets in December 2023.

• Concussions are serious injuries that can have long-term implications, especially for quarterbacks who must possess both mental acuity and physical resilience.
• Stroud's previous concussion raises questions about his health management moving forward.

Yes, but: The situation was complicated by an overturned call regarding the hit on Stroud.

• Initially, referees flagged Abrams-Draine for unnecessary roughness; however, after review, officials determined there was no contact with Stroud's head or neck.
• This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about the consistency and accuracy of officiating in high-stakes situations.

What to watch: As the Texans navigate this period without their starting quarterback, all eyes will be on Davis Mills and how he adapts to the starting role.

• Mills’s performance will not only impact the outcome of the current game but also shape the Texans’ strategic approach in the upcoming weeks.
• The coaching staff may need to adjust their offensive system—potentially leaning more on a run-heavy game plan to relieve pressure on Mills.

The bottom line: The Texans face significant challenges ahead without Stroud, underscoring the importance of player health and effective communication between players, coaches, and medical staff.

In professional football, player safety continues to be a paramount concern, and the league's response to these incidents will likely influence future policies and regulations around concussion protocols. As the Texans attempt to regroup, the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of their franchise quarterback while striving for competitive success on the field.