Bryce Young has spoken out in support of CJ Stroud following widespread criticism of Stroud’s recent playoff performance. Young underscored the complexities of the quarterback role and the impact of team dynamics and external pressures on a player’s success. The focus on Stroud’s struggles comes as analysts suggest the Houston Texans may explore trade options, with the Pittsburgh Steelers expressing potential interest.
Young and Stroud have a long history, having competed since high school and being selected first and second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud had an outstanding rookie season, while Young faced challenges behind a Carolina Panthers offensive line that often struggled. However, Stroud’s efficiency declined during his second year, despite the Texans making the playoffs, largely due to a strong defensive unit.
Details of Stroud’s Declining Season and Playoff Performance
The 2025 season marked a significant drop in Stroud’s production. He completed 3,041 yards, threw 19 touchdowns, and recorded eight interceptions. His performance in the wildcard playoff game against the New England Patriots was notably poor: Stroud’s pass completion rate dropped to a career low of 42.6%, and he threw four interceptions, raising questions about his future with the Texans.
Following this game, former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky stated on ESPN that 31 other NFL quarterbacks would have performed better than Stroud in that matchup. This harsh appraisal fueled calls among critics for the Texans to trade Stroud rather than exercising his fifth-year contract option.
Bryce Young Calls Out Media Coverage on Stroud’s Situation
Young has emerged as one of Stroud’s staunch defenders during this challenging period. On Ryan Clark’s The Pivot Podcast, Young criticized parts of the media for sensationalizing Stroud’s struggles to generate attention. He emphasized that the quarterback position is unique in that it involves constant competition and teamwork, making individual fault hard to isolate.
People act like they haven’t watched him go dominate in the league, we’ve seen it. Also, one thing, the quarterback position, in general, this is one of the rare, you can’t call ISO on [every snap] in the NFL. It’s 11 on 11 one side of the ball and the other. We all sign up for that criticism. We all sign for that credit. We all want to take the bullet for the team, that’s our job. But at the end of the day… We can’t control everything. We know what [CJ] does.
Bryce Young said
Young’s perspective highlights that while quarterbacks receive significant praise or blame, many factors beyond their control influence outcomes. Young’s longstanding connection with Stroud, dating back to their high school days in California and their near-simultaneous entry into the NFL draft, gives him insight into Stroud’s capabilities and character.
Progress and Prospects for Bryce Young and the Panthers
Meanwhile, Bryce Young’s own career trajectory has gained momentum. After a tough rookie year, he has improved his performance under coach Dave Canales, leading the Panthers to their first playoff berth in several years. The Panthers won the NFC South division on the final day of the regular season and nearly upset the Los Angeles Rams in the wildcard round, narrowly losing 34-31. Young contributed both passing and rushing touchdowns, alongside solid support from running back Chuba Hubbard. However, a late interception by the Rams proved decisive in that close loss.
Trade Speculations Surrounding CJ Stroud
As concerns about Stroud’s performance mount, NFL analysts suggest the Texans could entertain trade offers. At 24 years old, Stroud is still young and developing, but the Texans may consider moving on, similar to how teams have handled players like Sam Darnold in the past.
Connor Orr of Sports Illustrated proposed that the Pittsburgh Steelers could be interested in acquiring Stroud as a “pipe-dream reclamation project,” given their current standing and roster needs. Orr noted that the Steelers, who do not seem to be rebuilding, might view Stroud as a potential quarterback option without sacrificing a high draft pick.
I’m not saying Houston will pick up, but I am saying that the Texans will receive a phone call. Stroud is the perfect pipe-dream reclamation project for a Steelers team that never plans to rebuild and is still probably too good to project for a top-10 pick in 2027.
Orr added that a first-round draft pick would likely be sufficient compensation for the Texans and offered a short-term alternative, suggesting Houston could sign veteran quarterbacks such as Jimmy Garoppolo or Russell Wilson to manage the position while searching for a long-term solution.
Significance of the Situation and Future Outlook for CJ Stroud
The ongoing debate over CJ Stroud’s future reflects the challenges young quarterbacks face in high-pressure NFL environments. Bryce Young’s defense of Stroud brings attention to the broader context of quarterback performance, which involves not just individual skill but team coordination and external factors. How the Texans handle Stroud going forward—whether by investing further in his development or seeking trade opportunities—could significantly influence their rebuilding process and roster composition.
For the Steelers, pursuing Stroud as a quarterback option represents a calculated decision that could impact their competitive window. Meanwhile, fans and analysts will continue to watch how both Stroud and Young progress in their critical second NFL seasons, with playoff aspirations and team success on the line.
Carolina @Panthers QB @_bryce_young is excited to see @CJ7STROUD play next year! The two have been connected since they were young high school signal callers in California, & were drafted with the first two selections of the 2023 draft. Young knows exactly what Stroud is made of,… pic.twitter.com/CdSgGUDAmv
— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) February 23, 2026
