C.J.Stroud

News: 3 days agoStroud admitted to being banged up Tuesday as the Texans prepare for Sunday's game at Tennessee, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Spin: Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans acknowledged Stroud is dealing with soreness, as many NFL players are at this point of the season. The quarterback practiced Monday, and while he looks like he'll be available to play Sunday, Houston is locked in as the fourth seed for the AFC playoffs and can't improve its position. Though Ryans suggested that all players healthy enough to suit up will play -- including Stroud -- the Texans could turn the game over to backup players at some point during the contest.

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.