CJ Stroud’s Playoff Collapse Raises Questions About Texans’ Future Under Center
The Houston Texans' 2025 season ended not with a bang, but with a thud-a blowout loss to the New England Patriots in the Divisional Round that left fans stunned and critics circling. At the center of the storm was third-year quarterback C.J. Stroud, who endured a brutal outing, tossing four interceptions-all in the first half.
For a player once hailed as the future of the franchise, it was a nightmare scenario. Stroud, who flashed elite potential as a rookie, looked overwhelmed and out of rhythm against a Patriots defense that smelled blood early and never let up. The turnovers weren’t just costly-they were momentum killers, each one further burying a Texans team already short-handed and battling the elements.
Stroud’s performance lit up social media for all the wrong reasons. Among the loudest voices was ESPN NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky, who initially said the Texans “win that game with 31 other quarterbacks.” That take drew heavy backlash, and to his credit, Orlovsky walked it back on Thursday, offering a public apology.
“I crossed the line,” Orlovsky said during an appearance on Get Up. “I don't ever want to do that in this role… that wasn’t cool of me. That was wrong of me.”
While the apology was well-received, Orlovsky’s initial sentiment echoed a broader frustration. Stroud’s postseason struggles-against both the Steelers and Patriots-have raised legitimate concerns.
After a promising rookie campaign, his trajectory has taken a noticeable dip. The same poise and precision that once defined his game have been harder to find, especially under playoff pressure.
Now, to be fair, Stroud wasn’t exactly working with a full deck. The Texans were without top wideout Nico Collins and lost tight end Dalton Schultz during the game. Add in harsh weather conditions that made life difficult for both offenses, and it’s clear Stroud wasn’t the only one fighting uphill.
But even with those caveats, four first-half interceptions in a win-or-go-home playoff game is hard to overlook. The Patriots capitalized on nearly every mistake, turning turnovers into points and putting the game out of reach before halftime.
This wasn’t just a bad day-it was historically bad. And while one game doesn’t define a quarterback, it does invite deeper evaluation.
The Texans have invested heavily in building around Stroud, and the flashes of brilliance are still there. But the regression this season, paired with back-to-back shaky playoff performances, puts the spotlight squarely on Houston’s front office.
Is Stroud still the guy? Or do the Texans need to rethink the long-term plan at quarterback?
The offseason will bring time for reflection, and the Texans’ brass will have to decide whether this was a blip on the radar or a sign of deeper issues. Stroud’s talent is undeniable. But in the NFL, potential only gets you so far-especially when January rolls around.