Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud's production and efficiency have taken a dip in his second season in the NFL, but one executive told Jeff Howe of The Athletic that he doesn't think he's regressed, noting the increased amount of pressure the former Ohio State star is under on the field this year.

"He's getting the s--t beat out of him," the executive told Howe. "He's been getting hit all year. When C.J. is under pressure, the play is going to drop off. When you're not comfortable and don't trust what's around you, that's not surprising as a young quarterback. I don't think he's regressed. I think he's just sped up with the progressions and the throws, and that hurts accuracy."

Stroud has completed 63.6 percent of his passes for 3,248 yards (7.1 yards per attempt), 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions this year.

Compared to last year, Stroud's completion percentage is about the same (63.9 percent in 2023 to 63.6 percent this year). His touchdown percentage is down (4.6 percent to 3.7 percent), and his interception percentage is up (1.0 percent to 2.0 percent). He's throwing for fewer yards per attempt (8.2 to 7.1) and adjusted yards per attempt (8.70 to 6.98). His quarterback rating is down (100.8 to 89.0), and so is his QBR (57.5 to 49.8).

As that executive noted, though, Stroud is facing far more pressure. He's taken seven more sacks this year (45 to 38) despite playing one fewer game. Stroud has also been pressured on 26.5 percent of dropbacks in 2024 versus 22.0 percent in 2023.

Also, Stroud has been missing his wide receivers. Namely, Nico Collins, the team's top wideout, sat five games with a hamstring ailment. Stefon Diggs played eight games before suffering a season-ending torn ACL.

So Stroud has certainly had setbacks between the pressure and the injuries. Most importantly, though, the 9-5 Texans have already clinched a division title with three games remaining. Stroud's "regression" hasn't stopped this team from earning back-to-back AFC South titles.

Up next for Stroud and the Texans is a Saturday afternoon game at the Kansas City Chiefs. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET.