Updates

The NFL announced Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud as the 2023 Pepsi^® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year.

As the number two overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud recorded the third-most passing yards by a rookie in NFL history and became the fourth qualifying rookie quarterback in NFL history with a passer rating of 100 or higher. He also led all rookie quarterbacks with 23 touchdown passes and five interceptions, becoming the youngest player to lead the league in touchdown-to-interception ratio.

“First and foremost, I want to give all glory and praise to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” said Stroud. “I’d also like to thank my family and friends for the unwavering love and support. Also, I wouldn’t have had the success I did this year without my teammates and coaches. It’s a blessing to be named the 2023 Rookie of the Year, especially considering all of the great players in my rookie class that were also nominated along with those that have won the honor before me. Thank you to the fans who took the time to vote for me. We’re excited about what we’re building in Houston, and this is just the beginning.”

Stroud had six games with at least 300 passing yards, tied for the second-most by a rookie quarterback and from Weeks 9-12, became the first rookie quarterback with at least 300 passing yards in four consecutive games. In Week 9, he set the NFL single-game rookie record with 470 passing yards.

Stroud was one of six finalists nominated for the award. The other finalists were Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane, Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua and Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson.