Here’s a harsh reality for Houston Texans fans: their star quarterback, C.J. Stroud, will miss his third consecutive game due to a concussion. But here’s where it gets even more concerning—this injury not only sidelines a key player but also raises questions about the team’s playoff trajectory. Since suffering the concussion in Week 9 against the Denver Broncos, Stroud has been absent from the field, leaving the Texans to rely on backup quarterback Davis Mills.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed on Tuesday that Stroud won’t suit up for Thursday night’s showdown against the Buffalo Bills. While the young QB has made progress in the NFL’s concussion protocol—even returning to practice this week—the short turnaround time wasn’t enough for him to fully recover. And this is the part most people miss: Stroud’s absence isn’t just about one player; it’s about the ripple effect on the team’s dynamics and postseason aspirations.
Mills, however, has stepped up admirably. In his two starts, he led the Texans to back-to-back wins over the Jaguars and Titans, throwing for 566 yards, three touchdowns, and just one interception. He also added 44 rushing yards and a score, proving he’s more than capable of keeping the team afloat. These victories were critical, pushing the Texans to a 5-5 record and keeping their playoff hopes alive. According to the NFL Playoff Simulator, Houston still has a 24% chance of making the postseason, though they trail division rivals like the Colts (8-2) and Jaguars (6-4).
But here’s the controversial question: Is the team better off with Mills under center right now, or is Stroud’s return the missing piece to a deeper playoff run? Some argue that Mills’ recent success could spark a debate about the starting QB role, while others believe Stroud’s potential is irreplaceable. What’s undeniable is that the Texans are at a crossroads, and every decision—and every game—matters.
Stroud’s next chance to return will be in Week 13 against the Colts, a game that could be pivotal for both his season and the team’s future. Until then, the Texans must continue to adapt and fight for every win. What do you think? Is Mills the unsung hero Houston needs, or is Stroud’s return the key to unlocking their full potential? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by Jim Ayello, Senior Editor for The Athletic NFL. Follow him on Twitter @jimayello for more insights and updates.
