Rookie QB C.J. Stroud Shines in NFL Playoffs, Leads Texans to Victory

Despite Stroud's Success, Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes Remains Most Trusted Playoff Quarterback

Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud led the Houston Texans to a playoff win over the Cleveland Browns, becoming the youngest QB in NFL history to lead his team to a playoff victory.
Stroud is a favorite to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, having completed 63.9% of his passes for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions in 15 starts.
Stroud's success has been attributed to the guidance of first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans and the strong draft classes built by Texans general manager Nick Caserio.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers, who selected quarterback Bryce Young with the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, one spot ahead of Stroud, finished with the league's worst record.
Despite Stroud's success, the Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes is still considered the most trusted quarterback in the playoffs, even though the 2023 season was his worst statistically since becoming a starter in 2018.