C.J. Stroud’s Performance Shines Despite Texans’ Struggles

The Houston Texans have started the season without a win in their first four games. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky argues that their quarterback, C.J. Stroud, is not to blame. Orlovsky suggests Stroud’s performance is worthy of a significant contract, typically reserved for top NFL quarterbacks.

Orlovsky stated on ESPN’s “NFL Live,” “C.J. Stroud has no business being 0-4.” Despite the team’s 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Stroud delivered a strong performance. He completed 21 of 31 passes for 347 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.

Stroud’s start to the season has been impressive, even as Houston struggles. In four games, he has thrown for 1,141 yards, five touchdowns, and zero interceptions, achieving a 95.9 passer rating. This performance has prompted Orlovsky to consider Stroud’s play beyond the team’s record.

“It’s a very interesting situation because no contract and you sit there and say traditionally there’s no way that you would pay a quarterback, who is 0-4 as the starter, the contract that he’s asking for,” Orlovsky said. “But if you just took the play of the quarterback, you would sit there and yes the $50 million to $55 million that you’re asking for, yes, it’s warranted.”

This situation creates a dilemma for the Texans. Quarterbacks are often judged by wins and losses, especially when contract discussions arise. However, Stroud’s case highlights why wins don’t always capture a quarterback’s quality.

Houston has scored over 30 points in two games but lost both. They began the season with a 36-31 loss to the Buffalo Bills followed by the recent narrow defeat to Dallas. In the latter game, Houston’s defense allowed 24 second-half points, including a 74-yard game-winning drive by the Cowboys in the final minutes. Despite Stroud providing Houston a chance, Dallas had the final answer.

Orlovsky believes Stroud’s four-game performance mirrors his rookie year’s promise. “The keeper game, the seams game down in the red zone, the broken plays that he’s made with his legs to throw the football, the play-action stuff, it’s as good as it’s been since his rookie year,” said Orlovsky.

Stroud’s rookie achievements are noteworthy. Drafted second overall, he threw for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions, leading the Texans to the AFC South championship and earning the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year.

His following seasons were less remarkable with 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 2024, and 3,041 yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 2025. Now, in 2026, some of his earlier efficiency has returned.

Stroud has attempted 151 passes without an interception. He averages 7.6 yards per attempt, his best mark since 8.2 yards in his rookie season. Yet, this hasn’t translated to team victories.

Orlovsky notes Houston’s defense as a major issue. The Texans have already allowed opponents to score 30 points twice this season, a rarity last year. However, the Texans’ offense isn’t without fault, scoring only six points against Cincinnati and followed by 17 against Indianapolis in consecutive losses.

Focusing solely on the 0-4 record neglects Stroud’s individual excellence. His evaluation impacts considerations of his long-term contract. Houston needs to assess whether Stroud can consistently lead them in the future, especially in the postseason.

If Orlovsky’s assessment stands, Houston’s main challenge isn’t their quarterback but ensuring the rest of the team capitalizes on Stroud’s strong performance.