C.J.Stroud

News: 2 days agoStroud completed 19 of 33 passes for 232 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Lions. He added one rush for five yards.

Spin: Stroud was in complete control in the first half, and his form was on display during Houston's final drive before halftime, when he went 4-for-6 for 66 yards and a 15-yard touchdown. However, he struggled in the final two quarters, when he went 5-for-13 for 68 yards and a pair of picks. Overall, Stroud has now failed to record multiple touchdowns in four consecutive games while topping 250 passing yards just once in that span, limiting his fantasy appeal.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: The former Buckeye looks to build on a momentous first season that included becoming just the fifth rookie quarterback to ever throw for at least 4,000 yards. Without much rushing volume or success in either his collegiate or professional profile, Stroud's fantasy production will be defined by his proficiency from the pocket. After finishing seventh in per-game fantasy output last season, another prolific passing season could unfold given the presence of a trio of talented receivers -- Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell -- each of whom brings special route trees and skill sets to the field. Securing Stroud in the middle rounds is a sound strategy for those who wait a bit at the position.