Texans’ Stefon Diggs Calls C.J. Stroud ‘Family, Not Just My QB’

In Houston, star wide receiver Stefon Diggs expressed his strong sense of camaraderie with quarterback C.J. Stroud as they gear up for their anticipated Week 1 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Diggs conveyed his excitement for the upcoming regular season, particularly following his trade to the Houston Texans earlier this year. He emphasized the time he and Stroud have dedicated to cultivating their on-field chemistry throughout the offseason.

The relationship between Diggs and Stroud actually began when they first met at the Pro Bowl in January. Reflecting on their growing bond, Diggs stated, “It’s been a nice road. I look at him as family, not just my quarterback. I’m rocking with him through thick and thin. I always tell him I am with you when you’re right, I’m with you when you’re wrong.” This deep sense of connection suggests a foundation that could be pivotal for their team’s performance this season.

Stroud reciprocated Diggs’ sentiments, highlighting the significant effort they both invested in understanding the Texans’ playbook, particularly during the offseason. Even during Stroud’s absences from organized team activities (OTAs), he remained committed to helping the All-Pro receiver. They spent time after training camp practices running routes together to enhance their timing, which has reportedly paid off.

“It has improved drastically. I think me and him already had a natural connection on the field and we just built it and built it and built it,” Stroud shared. “You’ve seen it on the field, just rep after rep. Just me and him having a conversation, talking about things we like, things we don’t like, and just being transparent. It is going to continue to grow, and it is going to be a special connection.”

Both Stroud and Diggs received recognition this week by being named among the seven team captains for the Texans this season. This marks a new chapter for Diggs, who is now playing with his third team in a decade. After enjoying a successful stint with the Buffalo Bills and a previous tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, Diggs aims to bring his experience to the Texans.

Diggs’ impressive career includes two standout seasons with his previous quarterbacks. His initial season with Kirk Cousins in 2018 saw him rack up 102 catches and over 1,000 receiving yards. When he joined the Bills in 2020 and paired with quarterback Josh Allen, he led the league in receptions and receiving yards, earning his first All-Pro selection. His statistics since 2020 speak volumes; he leads the league with 445 receptions, ranks fourth in receiving touchdowns, and has amassed over 5,300 receiving yards.

Fans and analysts alike have high hopes for the chemistry between Stroud and Diggs, especially considering Stroud’s impressive rookie season. Last year, Stroud led the league in several categories, including passing yards per game and touchdown-to-interception ratio, while also throwing for over 4,000 yards. These achievements set a solid precedent for what could develop as an explosive offensive partnership.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans also shared his enthusiasm for Diggs, noting the remarkable influence the receiver has on the team. “I am really excited about adding Stefon to our team. His influence is not just on the receivers; it’s on our entire team,” Ryans said. “His competitive spirit, what he brings each and every day, lights a fire in our entire team. I’m very pleased with what he’s done, the energy he brings, and I’m excited to see him perform during the regular season.”

With the kickoff of the season approaching, anticipation is building for how the partnership between Stroud and Diggs will unfold on the field. Their commitment to each other, combined with their proven talents, could be the key to the Texans’ success as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

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