Bryce Young was called a bust three games into the 2024 season after being benched.
C.J. Stroud was considered the NFL’s next elite quarterback, surpassing gunslingers like Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert and Tua Tagovailoa after a dominant rookie season.
In retrospect, both statements were extreme reaches from the jump. Stroud has regressed in 2024, but still should be considered among the upper-echelon of players.
Young, who eventually returned as QB1 out in Charlotte, is perhaps the league’s most improved player entering 2025. Only Vikings passer Sam Darnold had a better season than the former No. 1 overall pick once he returned to the starting lineup.
Stroud, who leads the Texans into the playoffs on Saturday, might be the most excited to see what’s next for his California frenemy.
“He’s been balling, I’m so happy for him,” Stroud said of Young. “The guys around him are rallying around him, but he’s leading them. Doing what he needs to do to make plays.”
Young, who grew up playing against Stroud, capped off his 2024 resurgence in style, totaling a career-high five touchdowns while leading the Carolina Panthers to an overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons on the road.
CJ Stroud on Bryce Young’s success.
“That’s a brother of mine. I’ll probably watch the highlights when I get on the bus.” pic.twitter.com/aMKFpMyji7
— Michael Bell (@avl_mike) January 5, 2025
The former Alabama star and Heisman Trophy winner completed 25-of-34 pass attempts for 251 yards and three touchdowns while tacking on another 24 yards with his legs.
From being benched to breaking out, Carolina fans know the right man for the offense is in the building entering another draft. Even in a roller-coaster season, Young finished on a high note.
Stroud, who’s felt those same bumps en route to a second AFC South title, hopes to provide the same spark before the clock strikes zero on his sophomore season.
“[It’s] inspires me to keep going,” Stroud said.
A year after Stroud took the NFL by storm, some have pondered if they bought the stock outside price value. The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year regressed in all three phases while helping Houston pick up a second 10-win season.
His completion percentage decreased by over 3%.
His touchdown total dropped by five.
His interception total doubled before Christmas Day.
C.J. Stroud vs. Bryce Young@FantasyPtsData pic.twitter.com/lGrRPmFu6I
— Scott Barrett (@ScottBarrettDFB) January 6, 2025
But like Young, Stroud closed out the regular season with a much-needed spark. He was nearly perfect Sunday, going 6-of-6 pass for 50 yards and a touchdown on the drive.
That was enough to set the tone for a 23-14 victory at Nissan Stadium.
“The main thing is just every play going forward, not taking anything back,” Stroud said. “But even when things happen, just staying positive, that’s something I learned.”
Unlike Young. Stroud hasn’t missed the postseason. He’s set to do battle with Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers, but a performance like Sunday’s could set the tone for the postseason.
C.J. Stroud on his excitement in seeing his friend and Panthers QB Bryce Young rebound and have another big game. pic.twitter.com/zE2QDkyZOd
— Jonathan M Alexander (@jonmalexander) January 5, 2025
Last year, Stroud completed 76.9% of his throws for 259 yards and two touchdown passes while helping Houston in the AFC South. A week later, he completed 76.2% of his throws for three scores en route to a wild-card round win over the Cleveland Browns.
Young, who threw for 15 TDs against six interceptions while adding five rushing scores in the Panthers’ final 10 games, will eventually get to playoffs. For now, Stroud takes inspiration from his resilience.
