Imagine being C.J. Stroud. You’re riding high as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, having earned Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. You led your team, the Houston Texans, to the playoffs, clinched an AFC South Divisional Championship, and even secured a playoff victory against a formidable Cleveland Browns team. The city is buzzing with excitement over your success.

However, despite your achievements, according to CBS Sports’ latest Top 100 list, you’re not even the highest-ranked player on your own team. You come in at a respectable 38th overall and the sixth-ranked quarterback, with names like Aaron Rodgers, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Patrick Mahomes ahead of you.

Surprisingly, the top-ranked Texan on the list is Danielle Hunter, recently acquired from the Minnesota Vikings, who sits at No. 35, just three spots ahead of you. Hunter, a four-time Pro Bowler and former All-Pro, is renowned for his dominant pass-rushing skills and is still considered among the best in his position.

It’s understandable why Hunter is ranked higher. He’s established himself over several seasons as a premier defensive talent, coming off a career-high 16.5 sacks season and still in his prime. Meanwhile, Stroud is only in his second year in the league and has one exceptional season under his belt.

But it’s not just Stroud and Hunter representing the Texans on the list. Offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil comes in at No. 57, wide receiver Nico Collins follows at No. 77, and young cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. rounds out the Texans’ representation at No. 80. Another Rookie of the Year winner, Derek Anderson Jr., makes the cut at No. 99.

Despite the rankings, Stroud’s rapid ascent and impact on the Texans are undeniable, setting the stage for even greater expectations in the seasons to come.

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