Houston Texans Part Ways with Quarterbacks Coach Jerrod Johnson
The Houston Texans have reportedly parted ways with quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson, marking a significant change in their offensive staff. Johnson had held the position for three seasons, having joined the organisation in 2023 when DeMeco Ryans was appointed as head coach.
Johnson's Role and Departure
During his tenure, Johnson was primarily responsible for overseeing the development of franchise quarterback CJ Stroud, a relationship that began when Stroud was still in high school. However, following the Texans' elimination by the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs, which dashed their Super Bowl hopes, the team and Johnson have decided to go their separate ways.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the split was mutual, with both Johnson and the Texans' offensive staff expressing a desire to move on. This decision comes despite Johnson being considered among candidates for a second interview for the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator vacancy, a role that ultimately went to Sean Mannion.
Staffing Changes and Implications
Senior offensive assistant and pass game specialist Jerry Schuplinski is now expected to step into the quarterbacks coach role, adding to his existing responsibilities. This move follows another key departure from the offensive staff just over a year ago, when coordinator Bobby Slowik left in January 2025.
The timing of Johnson's exit raises eyebrows, particularly given his close work with CJ Stroud. Stroud has one more year remaining on his rookie contract, followed by a fifth-year option for 2027 that the team must decide on by May. However, the young quarterback has experienced a noticeable drop in productivity over the past couple of seasons.
CJ Stroud's Performance and Future
In 2023, Stroud threw for 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns with only five interceptions across 15 starts. Yet, in 31 appearances over the past two seasons, his statistics have declined to 39 touchdowns and 20 interceptions, averaging 218.3 yards per game. A particularly concerning moment came during the divisional loss to the Patriots, where Stroud threw a staggering four interceptions.
Despite these challenges, Texans general manager Nick Caserio has publicly supported Stroud. During the NFL Combine earlier this week, Caserio insisted that Stroud is 'not going anywhere' and dismissed trade rumors as 'moronic'. Stroud himself has reaffirmed his commitment to the franchise, stating last month, 'I want to be here for as long as I can. I love the city of Houston. It really hurts me. I wish it didn't go that way. My intent was to go out there and ball.'
The departure of Jerrod Johnson adds another layer of uncertainty to the Texans' offensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season, with all eyes on how CJ Stroud will adapt under new coaching guidance.
