"Y’all don’t have much to talk about": C.J. Stroud jokingly calls out media for blowing out shoulder injury concerns out of proportion

Given that C.J. Stroud did not throw during the Houston Texans' OTAs last week, it is encouraging that the third-year quarterback threw without any restrictions at the minicamp practice on Tuesday.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans said last week that Stroud was unable to use his arm because of "general soreness." But in a press conference on Tuesday, the quarterback played down the injury worries.

After practice on Tuesday, Stroud responded to reporters' questions regarding his shoulder problems.

"I was already throwing — before you guys see me out there — pretty normally," Stroud said. "I think y’all don’t have much to talk about so everything just gets blown up in the offseason. I’m fine, man. I’m really okay.

“I took this offseason very serious on just working hard, trying to get my body right. Trying to be faster, stronger & it went really well but there is always risk & reward. I felt great, man. I’m very grateful to be back and out on the field. A little rusty — made some throws, missed some throws. Just very grateful to be out there with the guys.”

Stroud explained that he is not concerned about the shoulder problem because he expects some soreness, as it is a normal part of playing quarterback. Additionally, he affirmed that he is in perfect health and has not had any medical procedures done during the offseason.

Houston's offensive components, especially the team's recently acquired weapons, are expected to come together now that Stroud is healthy. The Texans have added a number of wide receivers this offseason, including Jayden Higgins (second round) and Jaylin Noel (third round) through the draft in April and Christian Kirk through a trade.

The addition of Nick Chubb to the team's backfield to complement Joe Mixon is also expected to increase the offensive potency of their running attack.

C.J. Stroud looking to bounce back this year after a down 2024 season

The Houston Texans selected C.J. Stroud with the second pick in the 2023 NFL draft. He passed for more than 4,000 yards and led the league in passing yards per game and touchdown/interception ratio, earning him the Offensive Rookie of the Year award in his first season as a professional.

Stroud's stats, however, declined in 2024. His interception total increased from five in 2023 to 12 in 2024, and his yards per game decreased from 273.9 to 219.2. He completed 63.2 percent of his throws for 3,727 yards and 20 touchdowns.

The Ohio State product is expected to play better in his third season in the league, especially since the team now has more offensive weapons.

Stroud has a 19-13 record, 43 touchdowns, 7,835 yards and a 93.7 passer rating in his two seasons with the Texans. He has also helped the team make two postseason berths in his two years there.

The signal-caller will aim to help the Texans remain competitive as they pursue their third consecutive AFC South title next season.