In a major boost for their playoff hopes, the Houston Texans have confirmed the return of star quarterback C.J. Stroud for their crucial Week 13 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Head coach DeMeco Ryans made the official announcement on Friday, November 28, ending weeks of speculation about the quarterback's availability.
Stroud Clears Concussion Protocol
C.J. Stroud has successfully completed the NFL's concussion protocol and will be back under center for the first time since suffering the injury during Week 9 against the Denver Broncos. The quarterback missed two full games during his recovery period, with his last appearance coming over three weeks ago.
According to Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle, both Stroud and safety Jalen Pitre received medical clearance to play against the Colts. Stroud's return comes at a critical juncture for the Texans, who are fighting to keep their postseason dreams alive in the competitive AFC South division.
Perfect Timing for Playoff Push
The Texans' matchup against the division-leading Colts represents more than just another game—it's a potential season-definer. Houston currently holds a 6-5 record and needs every victory to strengthen their playoff positioning. Stroud's return couldn't come at a better time, as the team looks to gain ground in the division race.
Stroud expressed confidence in his team's abilities this week, telling ESPN: "You see guys step up and start to take more on the plate and rise to the occasion. Of course, we didn't start off the best. But we know what type of team we have. We're very talented."
Before his injury, Stroud had compiled impressive statistics, throwing for 1,702 yards and 11 touchdowns during the season. His presence on the field has been sorely missed, particularly given the offensive struggles the team experienced in his absence.
Backup Mills Holds the Fort
While Stroud recovered, backup quarterback Davis Mills stepped up admirably, leading the Texans to a 3-0 record during his starts. However, the offense showed significant limitations in Mills' most recent outing against the Buffalo Bills, where Houston managed only 60 net yards in the second half—their worst offensive performance of the 2025 season.
Mills struggled to connect with his running backs and missed several crucial passes, highlighting the importance of Stroud's return. The contrast in offensive production between the two quarterbacks underscores why Stroud remains the franchise's cornerstone player.
The 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has experienced some challenges in his second season, posting a 3-5 record as starter while averaging 212.8 passing yards per game. However, his track record of leading the Texans to playoff appearances in both of his first two seasons makes him the obvious choice to spearhead the team's late-season push.
Stroud's complete participation in all three practice sessions this week provided the final confirmation coaches needed to clear him for game action. The quarterback will take the field on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. CET) against the Colts, with Houston's playoff hopes potentially hanging in the balance.
