C.J. Stroud Elevates Texans Draft Class Grade After Rookie Season

C.J. Stroud propelled the Houston Texans’ 2025 draft class into the spotlight, earning a B+ grade for rookie wideout Jayden Higgins after the 2025 season ended on Dec. 31, 2025.

Stroud’s 3,200‑yard passing total in 2025 gave Higgins 50 catches for 623 yards and six touchdowns, a clear sign of chemistry developing early. The quarterback’s pocket presence also helped Aireontae Ersery tighten his blocking, limiting sacks to just one in the final eight games. Stroud’s ability to extend plays let the offensive line showcase its growth, especially for the blind‑side protector role Ersery aspires to fill.

Jayden Higgins earned a B+ after posting 623 receiving yards, positioning himself as Stroud’s primary target. Aireontae Ersery, a rookie guard, improved enough to be graded B, showing he could protect Stroud’s blind side. Woody Marks, the running back, posted 832 rushing yards and three receiving touchdowns, meriting an A. Meanwhile, Jaylin Noel’s 26 catches for 292 yards earned a C, indicating limited usage despite potential.

Injuries hampered several picks. Jaylen Reed missed most of the year after a foot injury and a forearm fracture in week 13, resulting in a C‑ grade. Graham Mertz, the third‑string quarterback behind Stroud and Davis Mills, saw no regular‑season snaps and was given a D. Defensive tackle Kyonte Hamilton fractured his ankle in camp, never playing a snap, while seventh‑rounder Luke Lachey spent the year on the practice squad before being released.

Stroud’s rookie campaign set a foundation for the Texans’ offense. With Higgins poised for a breakout sophomore year and Ersery expected to lock down the left side, Stroud can anticipate a more protected pocket and a reliable target pool. The team’s draft grades suggest a solid core that could elevate the Texans from a rebuilding phase to a competitive unit by the 2026 season.

The offseason will focus on health and depth. Reed’s recovery will be monitored closely, while the coaching staff decides whether to retain Mertz as a developmental quarterback. Defensive prospects like Hamilton will fight for roster spots, and the team may look to add veteran depth to support Stroud’s growth. If the Texans can keep their key pieces healthy, Stroud’s trajectory points toward a breakout second year.