Limited Participation at OTAs
In early June, attention has turned to Houston, where quarterback C.J. Stroud has been sitting out of the throwing portions of organized team activities (OTAs). What was initially believed to be a pectoral issue has since been described by head coach DeMeco Ryans as “general soreness.” Despite the limited activity, Ryans made it clear there’s no long-term concern.
“There’s no concerns with C.J. It’s just general soreness,” Ryans said. “We’re taking extra precaution with him, but he’ll be good to go. No concerns on my end there.”
Coach Remains Vague on Specifics
Ryans offered few details during Tuesday’s press conference. When asked whether Stroud would be ready to throw by minicamp, he avoided a definitive answer. Questions about a possible offseason procedure were met with a firm response.
“That’s it for C.J., guys. On the questions, that’s it,” Ryans said. “What I said, that’s it for him. It’s general soreness, and we’re taking extra precaution with him. We’re not gonna rush him into anything. He’ll be fine. When the moment is for him to be ready to go, he’ll be ready to go.”
No Documented Injury History
NFL teams are not obligated to disclose offseason injuries as they are during the regular season. Stroud, notably, does not have a known history of shoulder problems. He appeared on the injury report just once for a shoulder issue — in Week 2 of the 2023 season.
Stroud’s 2024 Challenges and Impact
During the 2024 season, Stroud played through stretches where protection from the offensive line was inconsistent and unreliable. Despite facing near-constant pressure, he never attributed his performance issues to any physical injuries.
The Texans managed to reach the playoffs, earn a postseason victory, and take the Chiefs deep into the fourth quarter of their Divisional Round matchup. Stroud was instrumental throughout that run.
Echoes of Past Concerns
Although the team insists Stroud’s soreness is minor, seeing a young franchise quarterback sit out of throwing drills in June inevitably raises concern. Some may recall a similar situation with Matthew Stafford in 2022, when offseason arm fatigue lingered into the regular season.
Texans fans will be hoping Ryans is correct — and that Stroud’s “general soreness” is indeed nothing more than that.
