C.J. Stroud's rookie season was historic, but his subsequent performances have been marred by issues with the offensive line and injuries at wide receiver and running back.
What's gone wrong for C.J. Stroud?
The Texans' ineffective offense during their 2026 playoff run highlighted the need for change, with right tackle Braden Smith being a weak spot and the interior line requiring retooling.
The team has added Wyatt Teller and re-signed Ed Ingram, but Teller is aging and the center position remains a liability.
Why it matters for C.J. Stroud
C.J. Stroud needs more explosive playmakers to succeed, but the current receiver room, despite being impressive, is plagued by health issues, and the running back depth is lacking.
The Texans have an opportunity to address these issues during the 2026 NFL Draft.
What comes next?
The Texans should prioritize addressing the offensive tackle position early in the draft, with Clemson's Blake Miller being a potential target, given his smooth athleticism and durability, having played over 3,700 career snaps without missing a game due to injury.
Adding an offensive lineman would give the Texans flexibility to select playmakers on day two, with Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. and Alabama receiver Germie Bernard being enticing options.
Washington's elite athleticism and top-end speed would complement Woody Marks, elevating the running game, while Bernard's versatility and savvy route running would pair well with Nico Collins, giving C.J. Stroud another reliable option.
The Texans can then focus on adding depth interior offensive linemen and another weapon at receiver or tight end on day three.
And with these additions, C.J. Stroud will be more consistent and effective in 2026, as the Texans capitalize on the opportunity to retool their offense.
So the Texans must act now to support their young quarterback, and the 2026 NFL Draft is the perfect chance to do so.
But the question remains whether the Texans will seize this opportunity and give C.J. Stroud the help he needs to succeed.
C.J. Stroud's future success depends on the Texans' ability to address their offensive issues, and the 2026 NFL Draft is a crucial step in this process.
The Houston Texans have a chance to turn their offense around and make C.J. Stroud a top quarterback in the NFL, but it requires swift action during the 2026 NFL Draft.
With the right moves, C.J. Stroud can lead the Texans to victory and become a dominant force in the NFL.
The 2026 NFL Draft will be a defining moment for C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans, and their decisions will have a lasting impact on the team's future.