C.J. Stroud: A Potential MVP Candidate in Year 2?

After a remarkable rookie season, C.J. Stroud is attracting attention in the MVP betting market, with early bettors placing him among the favorites to win the award in his second NFL season.

C.J. Stroud has emerged as a potential MVP candidate in just his second NFL season. The former Ohio State quarterback has captured the attention of early bettors, with 13.2% of all bets on BetMGM placed on Stroud to win the prestigious award. This places him second only to Josh Allen in terms of liability for sportsbooks within the MVP betting market.

Stroud's impressive rookie season laid the foundation for his MVP aspirations. He threw for a remarkable 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns, while only committing five interceptions. His 273.9 passing yards per game led the league among players with nine or more starts, earning him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

C.J. Stroud: A Potential MVP Candidate in Year 2?

The Houston Texans have provided Stroud with a talented supporting cast, bolstering their offense through trades for Stefon Diggs and Joe Mixon. These acquisitions join a group that already includes Nico Collins, Tank Dell, and Dalton Schultz, giving Stroud a formidable arsenal of weapons at his disposal.

Stroud's potential to make a quantum leap in his second season is supported by historical precedent. Both Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson captured the MVP award in their second NFL seasons. Mahomes won the MVP in 2018 after throwing for 5,097 yards and 50 touchdowns, while Jackson achieved the honor in 2019 with an impressive 3,127 passing yards, 1,206 rushing yards, and 36 total touchdowns.

The Texans' offense has the potential to be explosive, with Stroud at the helm orchestrating a high-powered passing attack complemented by a solid running game. The addition of Diggs and Mixon significantly enhances the team's scoring capabilities, giving Stroud ample opportunities to showcase his playmaking abilities.

Stroud's excellent decision-making, quick release, and accurate arm make him a dangerous threat to opposing defenses. His ability to extend plays with his mobility and make pinpoint throws under pressure adds another dimension to the Texans' offense.

If Stroud continues to develop and improve, he has the potential to become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. With a talented offense around him and the opportunity to showcase his skills, Stroud is a legitimate contender for the MVP award in his second season.

The Texans' schedule presents both challenges and opportunities for Stroud. They face a tough opening stretch, with games against the Colts, Bills, and Eagles, but also have several favorable matchups later in the season. Stroud's ability to navigate both tough and favorable matchups will be crucial in his pursuit of the MVP award.

Ultimately, Stroud's success will hinge on his ability to lead the Texans to victories. If he can guide the team to a successful season, while continuing to showcase his individual brilliance, he has a strong chance of joining the ranks of Mahomes and Jackson as second-year MVP winners.