CJ Stroud Returns from Concussion Protocol to Face Colts in Critical AFC South Showdown

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud will start Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. He has been cleared from the NFL‘s concussion protocol. The game is set for Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

His return comes at a pivotal moment. The Texans are fighting for a playoff spot. This divisional clash could decide their postseason fate.

Stroud’s Comeback Bolsters Texans’ Offensive Hopes

Stroud missed the last three games due to the head injury. He sustained it in a Week 9 loss to the Denver Broncos. Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed his clearance on Friday.

The young quarterback expressed gratitude to be back with his team. He thanked fans for their support during his recovery. According to ESPN, Stroud is eager to reclaim his role and continue his strong season.

Before his injury, Stroud was performing efficiently. He had thrown for 1,702 yards with 11 touchdowns. His 66.5% completion rate helped stabilize Houston’s offense.

Backup Success Provides Unexpected Boost

Veteran Davis Mills started in Stroud’s absence. He led the Texans to three consecutive victories. This kept Houston’s season alive and in contention.

Mills passed for 879 yards with five touchdowns during that stretch. His steady play was a revelation. It proved the team’s depth and resilience under pressure.

The winning streak has positioned Houston as the current eighth seed. Every game now carries immense weight for their playoff aspirations. The team’s confidence is reportedly high.

Elite Defense Awaits Key Reinforcement

The Texans defense has been the league’s best this season. They allow the fewest total yards per game. They also rank second in points allowed.

Safety Jalen Pitre is also returning from a concussion. His presence will strengthen an already formidable secondary. This unit will be crucial against a talented Colts offense.

Indianapolis leads the AFC South with an 8-3 record. A Texans win would close the gap to just one game. The division race would tighten significantly with five weeks left.

CJ Stroud’s return from the concussion protocol is the spark Houston needs for a late-season push. His performance against the Colts will be a major test of his resilience and skill. This matchup could define the Texans’ entire season.

Info at your fingertips

When did C.J. Stroud get injured?

He suffered a concussion during the Texans’ Week 9 game against the Denver Broncos. This caused him to miss the following three contests before being cleared.

How did the Texans do without Stroud?

Backup quarterback Davis Mills led the team to a perfect 3-0 record. This surprising run kept Houston firmly in the AFC playoff picture during Stroud’s absence.

What are the Texans’ playoff chances?

Analytics models give them about a 38% chance to reach the postseason. Winning this critical divisional game against Indianapolis would significantly improve those odds.

Who else is returning from injury for the Texans?

Starting safety Jalen Pitre has also cleared the concussion protocol. His return further bolsters the NFL’s top-ranked defensive unit for the crucial matchup.