Posted on Nov 03

Texans' Stroud in concussion protocol; Mills expected to start if Stroud can't play

Posted Nov 3, 2025

C.J. Stroud’s concussion raises concerns for the Texans as they prepare to face the Jaguars in Week 10.

Why it matters: The status of Stroud could significantly impact the Texans' offensive strategy and overall performance against a competitive Jacksonville team.
Stroud has been a key player for Houston, ranking 12th in the league with a QBR of 64.8 and throwing for 11 touchdowns this season. If he cannot clear concussion protocol, backup Davis Mills will need to step up in a crucial matchup.

What’s new: Stroud is currently in the concussion protocol but reportedly "feeling a little bit better."

Coach DeMeco Ryans indicated that Stroud’s progress will be monitored closely throughout the week.
The Texans are 3-5 and ranked 24th in scoring offense, making Stroud's potential absence even more critical.

Yes, but: While Mills has experience, expectations should be tempered if he takes the reins against Jacksonville.

In relief of Stroud, Mills completed 17 of 30 passes for 137 yards against the Broncos, showing flashes but failing to find the end zone.
Ryans emphasized the need for Mills to make sound decisions without the pressure of high expectations.

What to watch: The Texans offensive performance under Mills will be pivotal in determining their chances against the Jaguars.

With an average of 21 points per game, the Texans need to enhance their offensive efficiency, especially if Stroud is sidelined.
Their upcoming opponent, the Jaguars, have shown resilience and could exploit any weaknesses in a Mills-led offense.

The bottom line: The Texans playoff aspirations hinge on Stroud’s health and Mills’ readiness to lead if needed.

As the team ranks third in the AFC South, every game becomes increasingly important in their pursuit of a postseason berth.
A strong performance from Mills could provide a confidence boost for a squad navigating through a challenging season.

Zoom Out: This situation reflects broader challenges in the league regarding player safety and the impacts of head injuries on team dynamics.

Teams must balance player welfare with the urgent need for competitive success, particularly as the season approaches its midpoint.
The Texans ability to adapt will be crucial not only for this game but also for the remainder of the season.

Texans' Stroud in concussion protocol; Mills expected to start if Stroud can't play

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 3, 2025

C.J. Stroud’s concussion raises concerns for the Texans as they prepare to face the Jaguars in Week 10.

What’s new: Stroud is currently in the concussion protocol but reportedly "feeling a little bit better."

Coach DeMeco Ryans indicated that Stroud’s progress will be monitored closely throughout the week.

The Texans are 3-5 and ranked 24th in scoring offense, making Stroud's potential absence even more critical.

Yes, but: While Mills has experience, expectations should be tempered if he takes the reins against Jacksonville.

In relief of Stroud, Mills completed 17 of 30 passes for 137 yards against the Broncos, showing flashes but failing to find the end zone.

Ryans emphasized the need for Mills to make sound decisions without the pressure of high expectations.

What to watch: The Texans offensive performance under Mills will be pivotal in determining their chances against the Jaguars.

With an average of 21 points per game, the Texans need to enhance their offensive efficiency, especially if Stroud is sidelined.

Their upcoming opponent, the Jaguars, have shown resilience and could exploit any weaknesses in a Mills-led offense.

The bottom line: The Texans playoff aspirations hinge on Stroud’s health and Mills’ readiness to lead if needed.

As the team ranks third in the AFC South, every game becomes increasingly important in their pursuit of a postseason berth.

A strong performance from Mills could provide a confidence boost for a squad navigating through a challenging season.

Zoom Out: This situation reflects broader challenges in the league regarding player safety and the impacts of head injuries on team dynamics.

Teams must balance player welfare with the urgent need for competitive success, particularly as the season approaches its midpoint.

The Texans ability to adapt will be crucial not only for this game but also for the remainder of the season.