C.J. Stroud struggles in divisional loss, Texans stand by him

C.J. Stroud threw four interceptions in the Texans' 28-16 divisional loss to the Patriots, and teammates and coach publicly expressed support as the team enters the offseason.

C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans lost 28-16 to the New England Patriots in a divisional playoff game. Stroud threw four interceptions and completed 20 of 47 passes, a performance that was a central factor in the defeat. Teammates and coach Demeco Ryans offered public support to the quarterback in the locker room after the game. The loss leaves Houston entering the offseason with questions about Stroud's next contract status. Key facts: - Final score: New England Patriots 28, Houston Texans 16 in the divisional round. - C.J. Stroud had four first-half interceptions and finished 20 of 47 passing with a passer rating of 28.0. - Teammates including Will Anderson Jr. and coach Demeco Ryans publicly expressed confidence and support for Stroud after the game. - The Texans face an offseason decision on whether to negotiate a long-term contract extension or exercise the fifth-year option on Stroud's rookie deal. Summary: Stroud's turnovers played a major role in the game's outcome and are likely to draw scrutiny during the offseason. The team emphasized support for him publicly after the loss. Texans management must decide between negotiating a contract extension or using the fifth-year option; the club's decision is undetermined at this time.