Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud will not be taking the field for Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. Stroud is still recovering from a concussion he suffered in Week 14 and has been in the protocol ever since. However, Texans coach DeMeco Ryans assured fans earlier this week that Stroud’s injury would not prematurely end his season.

In Stroud’s absence, Case Keenum stepped up and led the Texans to victory against the Tennessee Titans in Week 15. Keenum had an impressive performance, providing hope for the team’s offense going forward.

Unfortunately for the Texans, they will also be missing two key defensive players in their upcoming game. Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and linebacker Blake Cashman have been ruled out due to injuries.

The team is also facing some uncertainty with wide receiver Nico Collins, linebacker Denzel Perryman, and defensive tackle Maliek Collins listed as questionable. Their availability for Sunday’s game will be determined closer to kickoff.

As for the Texans’ standing in the AFC, they are currently in the No. 8 spot and are part of a three-way tie for the AFC South division lead. This makes the upcoming game against the Browns even more crucial for the team’s playoff hopes.

The news was first reported by ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime and Field Level Media, who provided the information for this report. Texans fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Stroud’s condition and the availability of their other injured players as they gear up for a pivotal matchup against the Browns.