Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud made headlines with a historic performance against the Buccaneers on Sunday, amassing 470 yards and five touchdowns. While his on-field achievements solidify his case for Offensive Rookie of the Year and even an NFL MVP consideration, Stroud chose to use his postgame press conference to shed light on a personal struggle concerning his father’s incarceration and the conditions in certain American prisons.
Despite his football success, Stroud is grappling with the challenges of being a family man in the midst of his father’s imprisonment. His father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, is serving a 38-year sentence for charges dating back to 2015. The arrest plunged the family into financial hardship, nearly leading to homelessness. C.J. Stroud, selected second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, revealed that he recently spoke to his father and expressed hope that something positive could happen to allow him to attend one of his games.
Hopefully #Texans rookie QB C.J. Stroud gets a chance to have his father watch him live in a game during his career ❤🤞
His father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, has not seen Stroud’s play even once in college or in the NFL as he's currently serving a 38-year sentence and isn't… https://t.co/V8NqLsYa7M pic.twitter.com/VVDuuUXctx
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 10, 2023
Addressing reporters, Stroud candidly discussed the flaws in the criminal justice system, emphasizing the need for reform. He highlighted issues such as prison conditions and stressed that while criminals should serve their time, they are still human beings.
“I got to talk to my dad a little bit this week. I’m praying to God that something can happen, that he can get out and come to one of these games. I’ve been praying for him a lot.”
Stroud’s journey is intertwined with his father’s absence, and he credits his perseverance to his faith. Raised in a religious household, Stroud acknowledged the role of faith in his life, giving glory to “my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” He emphasized the importance of worshiping during challenging times and credited his sense of peace to his faith, enabling him to navigate both on and off the football field.
