CJ Stroud Carries NFL History Potential Into Divisional Weekend

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) — Quarterback C.J. Stroud (24) enters Sunday’s matchup already etched into postseason record books. With three playoff wins before turning 25, Stroud has a chance to become just the fifth quarterback since 1950 to earn four postseason victories before his 25th birthday.

Joining a rare list that includes Patrick Mahomes, Ben Roethlisberger, Brock Purdy, and Mark Sanchez. For a franchise still chasing its first Super Bowl appearance, Stroud’s trajectory is unprecedented.

Sunday’s game against New England also places the Texans in one of the youngest quarterback playoff matchups in NFL history.

Stroud and Patriots quarterback Drake Maye will combine for 47 years, 248 days, ranking as the fifth-youngest postseason QB pairing since 1950—a tell-tell sign that the AFC’s future may already be here.

From a Texas lens, the moment matters even more. The Texans are now the only active NFL franchise representing Texas in the Divisional Round, putting Houston in position to extend the state’s playoff legacy that includes past deep runs by the Cowboys and Oilers.

A win would move Houston within one victory of the franchise’s first AFC Championship Game appearance.