Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has earned the right to celebrate this season.
A year removed from quarterbacking Ohio State to the College Football Playoff, Stroud is in the process of putting together one of the finest rookie campaigns in recent memory. Through 11 games, Stroud has thrown 19 touchdowns against just five interceptions as Houston has transformed into a legitimate playoff contender.
However, he may have gone a bridge too far during Sunday’s 24-21 loss to the Jaguars. After rushing for a short touchdown, Stroud led a celebration in which he pantomimed slapping tackle George Fant in homage to John Singleton’s 2001 film Baby Boy.
Stroud was asked about the celebration Wednesday afternoon, and addressed the possibility that he may be fined for it.
#Texans QB CJ Stroud on his “Baby Boy” touchdown celebration. Says the NFL is an entertainment business pic.twitter.com/zISVkcTNHs
— DJ Bien-Aime (@Djbienaime) November 29, 2023
“I think it’s cool. I definitely love that we were able to celebrate our touchdown,” Stroud said. “This is an entertainment sport. I don’t think I’ll get a fine. I’m hoping I don’t.”
The NFL has liberalized its once-rigid celebration rules in recent years, leading players to come up with a number of creative routines. That said, there are still some celebrations that wind up resulting in a fine. Stroud hopes he can avoid that outcome.
“We want people to tune in, right? Let us have a little bit more time to celebrate,” Stroud said.
