C.J. Stroud Sent Strong Message To Caleb Williams During Viral Postgame Handshake

C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans advanced to 2-0 on the season after taking down the Chicago Bears, 19-13, on Sunday Night Football.

The primetime game featured a battle of young stars at quarterback, with Stroud piloting the Texans and the No. 1 overall pick from the 2024 NFL draft, Caleb Williams taking over a leadership role in Chicago.

Stroud won the first head-to-head battle between the two, but he was quick to show the rookie respect after the game.

The two met in the middle of the field and shared a short conversation following the loss for Chicago. During Stroud's postgame interview, he was asked about the encounter.

Stroud mentioned that he gave Williams some words of encouragement, telling the young star to keep his head up, explaining the road won't be easy.

”Everything that got you here is gonna take care of you in the long run," Stroud said. "Don’t put your head down. Don’t let the hard time humble you... It’s not gonna be easy… You got picked at one for a reason."

The interaction from Stroud and Williams has received over 50k views, just over 15 minutes into the post from the NFL at the time of this writing.

Stroud finished the win over Chicago with 260 yards and a touchdown, completing 23-of-36 pass attempts. He was able to spread the ball through the field, with five playmakers from the Texans having two or more receptions.

Williams ended his night with two interceptions and 174 yards. He struggled against the Texans' pass rush and didn't find too many chunk plays. His No. 1 receiver on the night was D.J. Moore, who finished the game with six receptions and 53 yards.

As Stroud explained, Williams is more than qualified to be a great NFL quarterback if he can get past this rookie slump and keep moving forward.

He was a Heisman at the collegiate level with the USC Trojans, but the adjustment to the strength and speed of NFL athletes usually takes time.

Stroud emphasized that the rookie must stay patient in the process while keeping his confidence.

Williams now starts his career 1-1 after defeating the Tennessee Titans 24-17 in Week 1.

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