The Houston Texans are already way ahead of schedule, looking much better than most people thought they would at this point in the season.

DeMeco Ryans has been instrumental in turning the culture around in almost no time, but it’s also had plenty to do with C.J. Stroud and how mature he’s been.

When asked about the team’s success, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport talked about how Ryans and the veterans have encouraged Stroud and all rookie players to lead the team.

The Insiders on @NFLGameDay: The #Texans are thriving, in part, because DeMeco Ryans empowers CJ Stroud and the rookies; #Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence’s mobility should improve soon; The #Chargers are tweaking their defense to feature star Derwin James. pic.twitter.com/cdYGuQxhJz

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 19, 2023

Both Stroud and Will Anderson Jr. have recently been named starters, and the organization is really excited about how calm they are under pressure and their ability to lead by example and demand greatness from their players.

Rapoport stated that the veterans don’t resent the young players for being the leaders; they actually embrace it.

That could take a team a long way, especially considering how many young players the Texans have on their roster right now.

Stroud looks like a lock to run away with the league’s Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, playing like one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL already.

His poise and decision-making have been remarkable for a first-year player, and while some believe there could be a regression in Year 2 when the league has some footage, he looks like a legit superstar in the making.

The Texans could end up winning their division and are still in the hunt for a playoff spot, and that seemed almost impossible at the start of the season.

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