The NFL, renowned for its emphasis on parity, employs a set of regulations and tendencies to maintain competitive balance. The cost of top-tier players, the influence of previous-year standings on the upcoming schedule, and the reverse order of the NFL Draft all contribute to this equilibrium. However, an age-old factor, human ambition, plays a pivotal role in the league’s dynamics.
Coaches at various levels aspire to climb the hierarchy, with position coaches aspiring to become coordinators and coordinators eyeing head coaching positions. This upward trajectory is inevitable with success, whether it involves moving to a new organization or stepping into the shoes of a departing higher-up. The Houston Texans find themselves at the cusp of such a challenge following the successful debut season of head coach DeMeco Ryans.
The team’s offensive coordinator, Bobby Slowik, has been actively exploring opportunities across the league, engaging in interviews with multiple teams. In the event of Slowik’s departure, the likely successor is quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson, who has already interviewed for offensive coordinator roles with the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Philadelphia Eagles.
The potential promotions for Slowik and Johnson are not only well-deserved but also expected, especially in light of the remarkable ascent of the Texans’ second overall pick, C.J. Stroud. Despite modest expectations for both Stroud and the team, the Texans exceeded predictions, clinching a playoff victory, while Stroud emerged as a strong contender for Offensive Rookie of the Year, amassing 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Reflecting on his journey, Stroud shared insights into his relationship with Jerrod Johnson, dating back to their time together in the Elite 11 competition during his high school days. Stroud emphasized Johnson’s impact on his confidence, recalling how Johnson, whom he admired, urged him to be more self-assured when he wasn’t the highly touted recruit he would later become. Stroud’s trajectory led him to excel for the Ohio State Buckeyes, contending for a national championship and making significant contributions to the passing offense upon Justin Fields’ departure for the NFL. Stroud, now the franchise quarterback for the Houston Texans, attributes much of his success to Johnson, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work with him and acknowledging Johnson’s role in his professional ascension.
Stroud concludes by expressing excitement for Johnson’s future endeavors, affirming that he deserves every success coming his way, thus underscoring the profound impact of mentorship and guidance in the world of professional football.
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