Why Texans fans think Celtics' Jayson Tatum stole CJ Stroud's job
CJ Stroud's viral gym transformation sparks Jayson Tatum comparisons as the Texans QB faces a critical 2026 season behind a rebuilt offensive line.
Why Texans fans think Celtics' Jayson Tatum stole CJ Stroud's job originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . C.
J. Stroud is currently the starting quarterback for the Houston Texans , heading into a pivotal fourth NFL season in 2026. After a historic Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2023, Stroud has faced "back-to-back years of at least minor regression," including a 2025 season where he posted a career-low 3041 passing yards and 19 touchdowns.
Following his underwhelming campaign, the Houston Texans quarterback broke his silence on Saturday with a gym photo. However, fans were less focused on his gains because of his appearance, which looks like Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum. CJ Stroud's offseason physique has Texans fans convinced he's Jayson Tatum Between the hat, his new build, and the gym lighting, several fans genuinely did a double-take at the photos.
The photos going viral on Instagram show Stroud in the gym with the caption ,”'Change is inevitable, Growth is intentional. ” @ESPNNFL reposted the workout shots on their X handle, penning , 'Year 4 loading for CJ Stroud. ' Year 4 loading for CJ Stroud ⏳ (via @CJ7Stroud ) pic.