Texans Suffer Multiple Injuries Including C.J. Stroud Concussion in Week 9 Loss

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud suffered a concussion early in the second quarter of the team's 18-15 loss to the Denver Broncos, forcing him out of the game and into concussion protocol as confirmed by head coach DeMeco Ryans. Stroud was hit by Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine during a slide after a scramble, a play Ryans described as unnecessary roughness that went unpenalized. With Stroud's status uncertain for the Week 10 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, backup quarterback Davis Mills is expected to step in, with Ryans expressing confidence in Mills' ability to manage the offense effectively. Stroud had been performing well this season, throwing for over 1,600 yards and 11 touchdowns before the injury. The Texans also lost four other players to injuries in the same game, including two starting offensive linemen, further complicating their situation. Despite these setbacks, Ryans emphasized accountability and refused to make excuses for the loss, urging the team to maintain discipline and execution.