Davis Mills sees C.J. Stroud as competition, but understands the fellow quarterback is a teammate.
The Houston Texans picked Stroud No. 2 overall in the 2023 NFL draft to solve their problems under center. After completing a 3-13-1 campaign — largely with Mills captaining 15 of those games — the organization believed an upgrade under center was needed to improve the roster.
Since early May when the rookies merged with the veterans’ offseason workouts, Mills has had to work with Stroud.
“He’s a great dude,” Mills told reporters July 28 after Day 3 of training camp at Houston Methodist Training Center. “Funny, super confident — kind of similar to how I would see myself.”
Where Mills has noticed Stroud command the attention of the room is when he does speak up, and it is his experience at Ohio State as a starter for the past two seasons that gives him credibility.
“I wouldn’t say he’s the loudest guy in all situations, but everyone respects him when he steps up and comes out and says something, because obviously he’s had success in the past and guys trust what he’s telling them because he’s usually right,” said Mills.
The Texans have worked to give Stroud and Mills equal reps throughout camp. While Stroud may be the future, the Texans’ intent is for their first-rounder to earn the job, not have it handed to him outright.
“It’s been great getting to know him and I’m excited to see what he can do out here on the field,” Mills said.