The Houston Texans appear to be without CJ Stroud for their clash against the Browns on Christman Eve, as he's still in the concussion protocol and has yet to participate in even a limited practice.

With this information in mind, should the Texans consider playing Stroud this Sunday if he clears protocol late in the week and hasn't practiced?

As a frame of reference, Saints quarterback Derek Carr has experienced two concussions in one month this season, and was able to return and play against the Panthers just seven days after his second concussion.

Carr has played well and won both games since returning, so there is a precedent for something like this. The problem is, only the Texans and Stroud know if he sustained a concussion against the Broncos too. If he was concussed two weeks in a row, that changes things in our minds. But we have no way of knowing if he is dealing with just the one concussion against the Jets, or if it's something more serious.

Plus, Derek Carr was able to get in two limited practices before getting cleared on Friday and logging a full practice that Friday before the game.

Should the Texans shut Stroud down?

PFT's Mike Florio recently said he thinks there's a possibility that the Texans sit him for the remainder of the season. Let's hope it doesn't come to that.

If Stroud clears the protocol and practices next week with no issues, we would expect him to return. And if that's the case, the playoffs could still be very much in reach.

Beating the Titans and Colts (especially the Colts) would significantly increase Houston's odds of getting in, even if they lose to the Browns this Sunday.

Looking ahead

Based on the hits Stroud is taking, does this change offseason priorities from weapons to protection? It's an interesting question, but with the draft capital and salary cap space the Texans have, why not do both?

The Texans are expecting to get a lot of offensive linemen back in 2024, but it couldn't hurt to add another center or guard just in case. And better yet, maybe they could find a tight end that's a great blocker and quality pass catcher. Finding a player with similar traits to 49ers TE George Kittle would be a great addition.

Drafting a player of Kittle's caliber is no small feat, but perhaps a rookie with those abilities could be developed into a lesser version of Kittle.

One thing is for sure, the Texans have some big decisions to make in free agency and the draft. But let's not give up on this season quite yet if Stroud is medically cleared and ready to play next week.

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