Houston Texans rookie quarterback CJ Stroud made his first NFL completion, which also turned out to be his first career reception. During a play, Stroud’s pass was deflected by a Baltimore Ravens defender, prompting Stroud to dive forward and catch the ball himself. This unusual play mirrors the debut of Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre, whose first career completion was also to himself. The Texans have placed great trust in Stroud, selecting him as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and granting him a pivotal role in the franchise right from the start, aligning with a broader trend of starting rookie quarterbacks in the league.

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C.J. Stroud, the standout quarterback for the University of Ohio State, has garnered significant attention in college football. He was a Heisman Trophy finalist for two consecutive seasons, an accolade of great prestige. Stroud’s breakout performance in the 2021 season, earning him Big Ten Freshman of the Week six times, propelled him to national recognition.

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Following a record-breaking display in the Rose Bowl, where he surpassed yardage records and equaled the touchdown pass count, Stroud solidified his status as one of college football’s elite players. The subsequent 2022 season saw him finish third in Heisman Trophy voting, with an impressive 10-2 record. Additionally, Stroud set a conference record for the most games with 6 passing touchdowns.

Stroud attributes much of his success to his parents, Kimberly and Coleridge Stroud, who instilled a strong work ethic in him from an early age. Despite facing hardships, including his father’s incarceration when he was just 13, Stroud remains grounded and driven.

C.J. Stroud’s father Coleridge Stroud

Coleridge Stroud, a pastor and football enthusiast, introduced CJ to the game. However, his own struggles led to his imprisonment. Despite these challenges, Stroud speaks of his father with love and understanding, acknowledging the complexities of his situation.

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C.J. Stroud’s mother Kimberly Stroud

Kimberly, C.J. Stroud’s mother, took on the responsibility of raising four children alone after Coleridge’s imprisonment. The family faced economic hardships, moving homes multiple times. Through it all, Stroud excelled in both football and basketball at Rancho Cucamonga High School. His mother, along with a supportive community, played a pivotal role in his journey to becoming a star athlete at Ohio State. Stroud’s athletic lineage also traces back to the legendary Jim Thorpe, a distant ancestor on his mother’s side.