Overview
- Stroud was inactive for Thursday’s win over the Bills after being ruled out early in the week, though he logged a limited practice during his return-to-play progression.
- NFL Network and ESPN reporting describes Stroud as very close to clearing protocol and expected to be available at Indianapolis in Week 13, pending the required independent sign-off.
- Davis Mills has started three straight games and gone 3-0, including a 23-19 victory over Buffalo to keep Houston in the playoff race.
- Head coach DeMeco Ryans and Mills emphasized there is no quarterback controversy, with Mills saying, “C.J.’s the starter” once he is cleared.
- Stroud was on the sideline offering input to Mills, and Ryans underscored that health comes first under the NFL’s multi-step concussion protocol.