C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young Give Back to Southern California at Wildfire Relief Event

Before diving into this in-depth analysis, make sure to subscribe to the Houston Stressans newsletter for exclusive Texans content, film breakdowns, and insider analysis straight to your inbox! Don't miss out on the latest updates—sign up today

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud spent part of his offseason giving back to the community where he grew up, joining longtime friend and Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young for "Dena Day: Pass It Forward" on Saturday in Pasadena, California.

Hosted by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles in partnership with the C.J. Stroud Foundation and Young 9 Foundation, the free event supported families impacted by the devastating 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.

Held at Jackie Robinson Memorial Field in Brookside Park, the community event provided both immediate resources and a day of fun for local families. Attendees received backpacks, essential items, fresh produce, shelf-stable food, and access to food trucks, while children enjoyed inflatables, games, face painting and other family activities.

One of the event's lasting impacts came through the YMCA, which announced it would provide free memberships through the end of 2026 for families affected by the wildfires.

The event also honored the firefighters, first responders and community members whose efforts helped protect Southern California during the fires, recognizing their service in a special ceremony.

For Stroud and Young, the day represented more than just another offseason appearance. The two quarterbacks grew up in the Los Angeles area, developed a close friendship long before reaching the NFL, and were famously selected No. 2 and No. 1 overall, respectively, in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Both spent time interacting with families throughout the day, taking part in activities with children and helping shine a spotlight on wildfire recovery efforts that continue more than a year later.

While NFL players often use the offseason for training, Stroud once again demonstrated his commitment to community service through his foundation, partnering with Young to make a meaningful impact in the region that helped shape both of their journeys to the NFL.