Why Considering C.J. Stroud as a Legitimate MVP Candidate is Completely Justified…
The question arose a month ago, and it’s still relevant today: Should rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud from the Houston Texans be regarded as an MVP candidate in the wide-open race for the NFL’s most valuable player? Traditionally, history might suggest otherwise, but Stroud’s extraordinary performance challenges conventional wisdom. Leading in passing yards and holding the fifth position in passer rating (101.2) among quarterbacks with four or more starts, Stroud has revitalized a franchise that has won as many games this season (7) as in the past two years combined. Furthermore, he appears to be a strong contender for the league’s Offensive Rookie of the Year. The question persists: Is C.J. Stroud also a legitimate MVP candidate?
Former league executive Joe Banner, speaking on the “Eye Test for Two” podcast, acknowledges that it’s too early to definitively answer, but he insists that Stroud deserves consideration. Banner suggests that for Stroud to solidify his MVP candidacy, the Texans would likely need to win their division, acknowledging the challenges posed by the competitive landscape. Discussing a rookie quarterback in today’s intricate passing league, with evolving defensive strategies, is in itself noteworthy. The difficulty for a rookie quarterback goes beyond mastering their own offense; understanding opposing defenses, including variations and tactics employed by smart defensive coordinators, is a significant hurdle. Stroud’s ability to excel in this context and surpass expectations in mastering his offense in so few games is truly remarkable.
Recognizing that rookies seldom win the MVP award, with Jim Brown being the sole exception in 1957, and considering that Stroud’s team is not leading their division at 7-5, there are clear hurdles. However, the unpredictability of the MVP race, with leaders changing weekly based on recent performances, underscores Stroud’s case for consideration. Quarterbacks have dominated the MVP award in recent years, winning 15 out of the past 16, and this trend supports Stroud’s candidacy. The race is so open that even wide receiver Tyreek Hill is a legitimate contender, challenging the convention that no wide receiver has ever won the award. This opens the door to considering a rookie quarterback like Stroud, who has displayed exceptional skills and leadership.
Banner emphasizes the rarity of the situation, acknowledging that even with a layman’s eye, Stroud’s performance is impressive. Stroud’s ability to process the game mentally, accuracy in throwing, and apparent leadership qualities make him stand out. Despite being in the league for only a couple of months, Stroud checks all the key boxes for a top-tier quarterback. Banner concludes by stating that Stroud is playing at an unprecedented level, something rarely seen from a rookie quarterback, if ever. As the MVP race unfolds, Stroud’s name rightfully remains in the conversation, challenging preconceived notions and expectations.
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