Here's the one major difference the Texans OC has seen from C.J. Stroud going into Year 2

Stroud was the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023

By Tyler Sullivan Aug 9, 2024 at 10:53 am ET• 1 min read

C.J. Stroud took the NFL by storm in 2023. As a rookie, the Houston Texans quarterback led the franchise to an AFC South title and a playoff win while setting new rookie team records in passing yards, touchdowns and completions. All that helped Stroud to an NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, and now the hype train surrounding the Texans heading into 2024 is at a fever pitch. And it sounds like he could be even better as he rolls into Year 2. 

Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik acknowledged that the area in which he's seen substantial growth in Stroud is that he's "been a lot more vocal in meetings" to ensure that the offensive is on the same page. 

"He's not afraid to talk this year," Slowik told ESPN. "I'd say he's not afraid to make sure that everyone's doing their job -- including himself, including me, including his teammates. He's definitely gonna make sure that everyone is putting in the work and doing what they need to do for us to be able to go out and execute."

C.J. Stroud HOU • QB • #7 CMP%63.9YDs4108TD23INT5YD/Att8.23 View Profile

Part of that uptick in vocalness from Stroud has been seen after practice, as he's stayed to explain how he wants specific routes run and works on building chemistry. He's also been active during meetings.