C.J. Stroud showed improvement, tossing a 29-yard TD to Nico Collins and compiling 207 passing yards with a single touchdown. However, penalties and sacks derailed multiple drives, and the takeaway is that Houston needs cleaner protection and more finish in the red zone to unlock fantasy ceiling.

Stroud completed 13-of-24 for 207 yards with a TD, but faced heavy pressure and was sacked three times as Houston struggled to sustain offense, finishing with 266 total yards and an 0-2 start.

Stroud kept Houston in the game with steady, efficient drives and a poised showing against a tough opponent. His poise under pressure and ability to distribute to multiple targets keep Houston competitive and point to a rookie QB with growing fantasy floor.

Stroud faces a defense adapting to injuries, with more passing volume possible if Houston trails. His distribution and decision-making will define the Texans’ Week 2 fantasy footprint.

Stroud navigates a reshaped Texans passing attack without Christian Kirk, leaning on Nico Collins and emerging targets to spark a fresher offense at home against Tampa Bay. His progression in Week 2 is pivotal for Houston’s fantasy upside, especially with the Bucs' injuries forcing new reads.