C.J. Stroud Excluded from Texans’ Lineup Ahead of Bills Clash
The Houston Texans are gearing up for a challenging Week 12 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, but they’ll do so without key contributions from their starting quarterback, C.J. Stroud.
Absences Weigh on the Texans
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that both Stroud and defensive back Jalen Pitre will be sidelined for the Thursday night game. “C.J. and Jalen will be out,” Ryans stated. “Both guys are progressing, they’re doing better. But, right now with the short turnaround game on Thursday, I just don’t have enough days for those guys to be available.”
This marks the third consecutive game missed for both players, who have been navigating the NFL’s concussion protocol after sustaining injuries in a Week 9 contest against the Denver Broncos.
Limited Participation Yet No Return
In a glimmer of hope, Stroud and Pitre participated in limited practice on Tuesday, marking their first involvement since their respective concussions. However, despite this positive development, the quick turnaround for Thursday Night Football leaves them unable to return to action. The Texans are now looking ahead to a potential return in Week 13 against the Indianapolis Colts.
Mills Takes the Helm Again
With Stroud out, Davis Mills will once again step into the starting quarterback role for the Texans. He has led the team to two consecutive victories during Stroud’s absence, amassing 566 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and only one interception. Mills also made headlines with a pivotal rushing touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which was instrumental in the team’s impressive 19-point fourth-quarter comeback.
Defensive Challenges Without Pitre
The absence of Jalen Pitre presents another significant challenge for the Texans’ defense. Pitre has proven to be one of the team’s most impactful players when fit, and his skills will be sorely missed as the Texans face a formidable Bills offense. As the Texans prepare for this pivotal game, they must find ways to compensate for the losses of both Stroud and Pitre to keep their momentum going.
