CJ Stroud Lands at No. 39 in NFL Top 100, Proving His Peers Still Hold Him in Elite Regard

The NFL Top 100 is more than just another offseason ranking. It’s the one list that NFL players themselves vote on — a peer-to-peer assessment that reveals which players earn the most respect inside locker rooms across the league. This year, Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud came in at No. 39, a strong placement that sends a clear message: regardless of public perception, his fellow players still see him as one of the NFL’s most dangerous quarterbacks.

For Stroud, it’s an especially telling nod because, going into this offseason, there was uncertainty among fans and analysts about whether he’d even make the list. After a sensational rookie campaign in 2023 where he took the Texans to the playoffs and won Offensive Rookie of the Year, his sophomore season saw more turbulence. Injuries along the offensive line, inconsistent run support, and schematic adjustments contributed to statistical dips, leading some to label it a “down year.”

But for those who share the field with him — both teammates and opponents — the respect never wavered.

The “Black Panther” of the Texans Offense

Stroud’s No. 1 wide receiver, Nico Collins, might have summed it up best. He revealed he’s given Stroud the nickname “Black Panther.” The meaning behind it fits perfectly:

“He’s quiet, and when it’s time for him to attack — he attacks,” Collins said. “The best quarterback in my eyes… I’ll go CJ number one.”

It’s not just a catchy nickname — it’s a reflection of Stroud’s demeanor. He’s calm, measured, and rarely lets his emotions get the best of him, but when the moment calls for it, his competitive fire and precision take over.

Earning the Respect of the League’s Best Defenders

The NFL Top 100 broadcast included a highlight reel of Stroud that resonated with players across the league. One standout moment was a clip from the Texans’ matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Stroud escaped pressure, rolled out, and delivered a laser for a touchdown — the type of throw few quarterbacks can make.

On the sideline, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, one of the most respected defensive minds in the game, couldn’t help but admire the throw. Caught on a mic’d-up segment, Spagnuolo simply said with conviction:

“This guy can THROW it.”

For a quarterback to receive that kind of praise from Spagnuolo — a three-time Super Bowl champion coordinator known for making life miserable for opposing passers — speaks volumes.

Opponents See the Full Package

Patriots defensive back Christian Gonzalez described Stroud as:

“Another quarterback that brings everything to the table.”

From arm strength and accuracy to poise in the pocket and football IQ, Gonzalez’s comment reflected the all-around skill set that earned Stroud immediate success in the league.

Joe Mixon on Stroud’s ‘It’ Factor

New teammate Joe Mixon, who joined the Texans this past offseason, has quickly become one of Stroud’s biggest advocates. During the highlight package, Mixon reacted to one of Stroud’s plays with pure excitement:

“Oh my god, that boy special.”

Mixon then elaborated on what makes Stroud stand out:

“CJ just got that ‘IT’ factor to him. He just does all the little things right. He does everything with that mentality like, whatever it takes to get the job done, that’s what I’m gonna do.”

For a veteran running back who’s played with multiple Pro Bowl-caliber quarterbacks, that’s high praise — and it echoes what many in the Texans organization have said about Stroud’s work ethic and leadership.

Why No. 39 Matters

It’s one thing for analysts to call a quarterback top-tier. It’s another for fellow NFL players — who have to prepare for him, play against him, and watch him up close — to place him among the league’s elite.

Stroud’s ranking at No. 39 puts him ahead of numerous established veterans and firmly cements his status as one of the NFL’s most respected young quarterbacks. It also shows that while narratives outside the building may fluctuate, the opinion of those in the game remains steady: CJ Stroud is the real deal.

In the words of Nico Collins, the “Black Panther” is only getting started. And if his peers are this high on him after what some consider a “down year,” it’s hard to imagine where he could climb if the Texans bounce back in 2025.