Why DeMeco Ryans Is Sidestepping C.J. Stroud in Texans-Titans Showdown—What It Means for the Season

The Houston Texans are heading into Week 11 with a familiar face lining up under center, as Davis Mills steps back into the quarterback spotlight. Coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed in his Thursday media session that C.J. Stroud will sit out the clash against the Tennessee Titans, still navigating the tricky waters of the concussion protocol. Stroud’s absence isn’t new — he missed the Week 10 showdown with the Jaguars and hasn’t hit the practice field since Week 9, raising the real prospect of him missing a third straight game given the quick turnaround with the Buffalo Bills coming to town in Week 12. Mills, who last started in 2022, showcased his mettle last week by throwing for 292 yards and finding the end zone with not just his arm but his legs too — a glimmer of hope for a Texans squad eager for consistency. Despite a reported elbow niggle, he’s been a full-go at practice, a good sign as the team braces for what’s shaping up to be a challenging stretch. Meanwhile, the injury list on defense and special teams grows thinner, with Jalen Pitre and Ka’imi Fairbairn officially ruled out, amplifying the spotlight on Houston’s resilience. The full rundown on who’ll be suited up drops later today, but one thing’s clear: the Texans will need every ounce of grit they’ve got to navigate this pivotal juncture. LEARN MORE

Davis Mills is set to be behind center once again for the Texans this week.

In his Thursday press conference, Houston head coach DeMeco Ryans ruled out quarterback C.J. Stroud for the Week 11 matchup against Tennessee, as Stroud continues to work his way through the concussion protocol.

Stroud also missed the Week 10 win over the Jaguars. He has not practiced since Week 9.

With a short week incoming — the Texans host the Bills on Thursday night in Week 12 — there’s a possibility Stroud will miss three consecutive games.

Last week was Mills’ first start since 2022. He completed 27-of-45 passes for 292 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. He also rushed for 20 yards with a TD.

Though Mills was listed on Houston’s Wednesday injury report with a left elbow issue, he was still a full participant in the session.

In his eight games this season, Stroud has completed 66.5 percent of his passes for 1,702 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Ryans also noted safety Jalen Pitre (concussion) and kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (right quad) have been ruled out for Texans-Titans. The club brought in Matthew Wright to kick last week, and he made his two attempts — a field goal and an extra point.

Houston’s full Thursday injury report will be released later in the day.