Texans rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud is set to begin the 2023 season as Houston’s starter.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans said the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL draft proved himself ready during training camp and capped a preseason test run with 3-yard TD pass in Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints.

Stroud said the designation was “definitely earned,” but doesn’t change anything immediately.

“I’m still going to work the way I’ve been working, even more now. Blessed enough to be a starter so young in this league,” Stroud said, “which isn’t the easiest thing to do, but I know my coaches have trust and faith in me. So I’m going to go out there and try to do my best.”

The Texans open the season on the road Sept. 10 against the Baltimore Ravens.

Stroud had a passer rating of 62.3 in three preseason games, completing 11 of 20 pass attempts for 89 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Stroud unseated Davis Mills for the starting job. Mills will begin the season as the No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart.

Texans linebacker Will Anderson Jr., the No. 3 pick in the draft, will also be a starter when the Texans face the Ravens in Week 1. Anderson was one of the highest-graded rookies in the preseason according to Pro Football Focus.

–Field Level Media