By leading his Houston Texans to a 45-14 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Saturday (Jan. 13), C.J. Stroud became the youngest quarterback to win an NFL playoff game in the Super Bowl era. The 22-year-old rookie said surpassing Michael Vick in that category was “really cool” because the former Atlanta Falcons player was his favorite quarterback as a kid.
Stroud, the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, called it a “blessing” to be in the post-season and to be on a team with a Christian head coach (DeMeco Ryans), “a lot of God-fearing brothers,” and “God-fearing sisters in the staff.”
While speaking to reporters after Saturday’s home win, the former Ohio State star paraphrased Scripture, saying, “We know that with God we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us” (Philippians 4:13).
CJ Stroud: ‘God Is at the Forefront of Our Minds’
C.J. Stroud, a strong candidate for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, said this season has been “a dream come true,” with everyone’s hard work paying off. “It’s really cool to see it come to fruition,” he said, adding that the players’ confidence is contagious. “I thank God I can just go another week with my teammates.”
When asked about the role God plays in the Texans’ success, Stroud replied, “I think definitely God is at the forefront of our minds, and we play for an audience of One.” The QB added that players each carry their own crosses and are “trying to be like Christ as much as possible,” despite not being perfect.
Stroud, who has said God gives him peace, said his life experiences have prepared him for this moment. As ChurchLeaders has reported, Stroud’s father, a former pastor, began serving a 38-year prison sentence while Stroud, the youngest of four siblings, was in middle school. The family experienced financial hardships and housing insecurity as a result.
CJ Stroud: My Purpose Is To ‘Be a Light in This World’
After his first playoff win, C.J. Stroud praised his teammates, coaches, and family, saying he thanks God for them all. The QB, who was quick to admit he’s young and still learning, said he’s “blessed enough to be with a group of guys that hold me to a standard,” adding he holds himself “to an even higher standard.”
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