C.J. Stroud, the Texans quarterback, experienced a rough playoff game on a snowy day at Gillette Stadium, finishing with a career-low 28.0 passer rating and four interceptions.
What happened?
The Texans and Stroud have taken steps to move on from that game, including a new approach to the offseason and upgrading the offense with significant investments in the offensive line.
Why it matters for C.J. Stroud
DeMeco Ryans believes Stroud has learned from those tough moments and is working hard to improve, throwing every day and being dialed in.
The Texans' top-ranked defense is Super Bowl caliber, but they need Stroud and the rebooted offense to do their part to advance further in the postseason.
What comes next?
One of the most significant moves involving the Texans' offense has been the decision to mutually part ways with quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson, who had worked with Stroud since his high school days.
DeMeco Ryans shifted former New England Patriots and Las Vegas Raiders assistant Jerry Schuplinski from senior offensive assistant to quarterbacks coach, feeling a change of voice was needed to help Stroud improve.
Ryans didn't criticize Johnson, saying he will be a good coach in the NFL, but felt a change of scenery was good for Stroud's development.
The Texans are 0-7 in the AFC divisional round, including going winless at the stage of the playoffs three years in a row under Ryans' leadership.
C.J. Stroud is a young quarterback who has gained valuable experience and playoff experience, and Ryans is excited to see how this continues to transition to him having a great year.
The Texans retained offensive guard Ed Ingram on a three-year, $37.5 million deal and signed guard Wyatt Teller to a two-year, $23 million contract and right tackle Braden Smith to a two-year, $25 million pact.
These moves show the Texans' commitment to improving their offense and helping Stroud succeed.
On 31 Mar, DeMeco Ryans explained the decision to switch quarterbacks coaches, saying it was to help C.J. Stroud improve and move forward.
The Texans' offense will be a key factor in their success this season, and C.J. Stroud's development will be crucial to their chances.
DeMeco Ryans is confident that Stroud has learned from his tough playoff performance and is working hard to improve, and the Texans' offseason moves show their commitment to helping him succeed.