Texans’ CJ Stroud leaves game after brutal hit

Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud left Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos after taking a huge hard hit from a defender.

Stroud took the snap and ran up the middle in the second quarter as he tried to avoid the rush. As he came down to slide, Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine leaned over with his shoulder and hit Stroud high. The quarterback’s head hit the field and he lay on his back, motionless for a brief moment.

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CJ Stroud of the Texans runs the ball against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

The Texas players immediately called medical personnel to come check on Stroud.

Stroud remained on the ground for a few minutes before being helped off the field. He gave the crowd a thumbs up as he walked to the sidelines. He slowly returned to the locker room.

Davis Mills came in for the Texans.

Texans medical staff check CJ Stroud of the Houston Texans after he was hit while running the ball against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

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Stroud was 6 of 10 for 79 yards in the game before the hit. He totaled 12 rushing yards on two carries. The team said he was being evaluated for a concussion.

Houston entered the game with a 3-4 record and was trying to stay in playoff contention. The team dealt with injuries all season, leading to a decline in production from the former Ohio State star.

Texans quarterback CJ Stroud warms up before the Denver Broncos game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)

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Stroud has 1,623 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and five interceptions in seven games this year.

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