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C.J. Stroud exited Houston’s Week 9 game at Denver after a hard hit to the turf early in the second quarter, triggering sideline care and a concussion evaluation that left the Texans and their fans waiting for answers.
How the injury unfolded in the Broncos game
Just over a minute into the second quarter, Stroud scrambled to extend a third-down play.
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He slid short of the first-down marker and fell awkwardly, his head making heavy contact with the ground.
Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine was close on the play, but replays showed no clear helmet-to-helmet hit.
Medical staff quickly attended to Stroud on the field and moved him to the medical tent for a formal concussion check.
- Immediate status: Questionable to return, then officially ruled out.
- Team response: Trainers evaluated him under NFL concussion protocol.
- Postgame update: The C.J. Stroud Foundation posted a photo indicating he was conscious and okay after the game.
Coach’s update and current health timetable
Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed Stroud remains in concussion protocol.
Ryans said the quarterback is reporting some improvement as the week begins.
Houston will monitor daily progress and follow league-mandated steps before any return.
Season snapshot: Where Stroud stood before the injury
The 24-year-old entered Week 9 with steady production, though not a breakout campaign.
- Passing yards: 1,623
- Touchdowns: 11
- Completion rate: 66.8%
Those numbers reflect an efficient start that the Texans will hope to preserve if he misses time.
Who could start if Stroud is sidelined
If Stroud can’t clear protocol, the Texans would turn to backup Davis Mills.
Davis Mills — experience and fit
- Former Houston starter in 2021 and 2022.
- Familiar with the Texans’ system and offensive staff.
- Limited action since Stroud became the starter in 2023.
- Recent game work in 2025: completed 2 of 4 passes for 23 yards.
Mills’ familiarity with the roster makes him the logical short-term solution.
What concussion protocol means for players and teams
The NFL protocol is a stepwise process designed to protect the player and confirm recovery.
- Sideline assessment and removal from play if symptoms appear.
- Detailed evaluation in the medical tent.
- Gradual return-to-play steps if cleared by medical staff.
Being placed in concussion protocol does not imply a fixed absence. Clearance depends on daily progress and testing.
Immediate implications for fantasy owners and Texans fans
- Monitor daily practice reports and official team updates.
- Prepare for Davis Mills to see meaningful snaps if Stroud remains sidelined.
- Consider short-term roster moves in fantasy leagues while the situation is unresolved.
Stay tuned to official Texans announcements and league injury reports for the latest developments.
