The Houston Texans have a special quarterback.
Though he might not have lived up to sky-high expectations last season, C.J. Stroud’s overall numbers weren’t bad, and he helped the team reach the playoffs for the second time in as many seasons in the league.
That’s why, even though they haven’t been together for long, wide receiver Christian Kirk can already recognize Stroud’s considerable talent.
The former Jacksonville Jaguars pass-catcher recently gushed about his new teammate.
“The thing that sticks out about C.J. is that he is super mild-mannered, but he has a lot of confidence, and he’s smart. He sees things well. He is a really good communicator, and I think at that position, especially being a QB and with him being a younger guy, that’s a big part of him getting to where he is now and still excelling.” Kirk said, via Texans Jacob. “He’s got a bright future and really excited to work with him.”
New #Texans WR Christian Kirk on his new QB C.J. Stroud via @SiriusXMNFL
“The thing that sticks out about CJ is that he is super mild mannered but he has a lot of confidence and he’s smart, he sees things well. He is a really good communicator and I think at that position… pic.twitter.com/WrXXaC0kuw
— Jacob (@TexansJacob) June 17, 2025
The Texans need a receiver to step up next to Nico Collins, as Tank Dell will most likely be out for the season, and Stefon Diggs left as a free agent.
Kirk has a strong pedigree as an efficient slot receiver, but he’s coming off a couple of down seasons after a strong first year in Jacksonville.
Stroud took the NFL by storm as a rookie, and some expected him to be an MVP candidate last season.
That wasn’t the case, but a lot of that had to do with a subpar offensive line.
Now, with new faces on that unit, Stroud can prove he’s more than a one-year wonder.
But as good as he is, he will need veterans like Kirk to help carry the load.