Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud clarified that his postgame exchange with Chicago Bears rookie Caleb Williams was not intended to demean him. The exchange, which occurred after the Texans’ 19-13 victory on Sunday night, gained traction on social media.
During the interaction, Williams was seen trying to cut the conversation short, prompting Stroud to gesture for him to return. Stroud advised Williams to “stop taking those hits,” referring to Williams being sacked seven times during the game. Stroud also expressed confidence in Williams’ future, stating that he would become a “hell of a player” in the NFL.
“I was not trying to little bro him or anything. He knows that, too. I have a ton of respect for him,” Stroud said, as reported by ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime. Stroud reflected on his own experience from last year, noting the impact of receiving advice from other players.
Stroud added that he did not believe Williams was showing disrespect but was likely frustrated by the loss. “I totally understand,” Stroud said. “So, I have a ton of respect for that guy, man.”
Williams has had a challenging start to his NFL career, completing 56.1% of his passes for 267 yards with two interceptions in his first two games. He has yet to throw a touchdown pass and leads the league with nine sacks.
