Texans QB C.J. Stroud (concussion) ruled out vs. Broncos

Field Level Media|published: 11/02/2025, 4:07pm EST

Nov 2, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) throws during the first half against the Denver Broncos at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sean Thomas-Imagn Images

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud was ruled out with a concussion after hitting his head on the turf against the visiting Denver Broncos on Sunday.

The Broncos' Kris Abrams-Draine levied a blow to the midsection of Stroud as he attempted to slide for a first down with 13:49 remaining in the first half. The hit resulted in Stroud slamming the back of his helmet against the turf. After receiving attention from the training staff, Stroud departed under his own power and was later escorted to the home locker room.

Stroud was 6-for-10 passing for 79 yards and led the Texans into field goal range on two drives. Davis Mills replaced Stroud under center with the Texans leading 3-0 and led a drive for an additional Houston field goal.

Sunday's concussion was the second for Stroud, who left a December 2023 game against the Jets after a hard tackle by Quinnen Williams. On that play,

the back of Stroud's helmet smacked the turf. He did not play in the next two Texans' games vs. Tennessee and Indianapolis.

--Field Level Media