Not Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen: Texans star CJ Stroud reveals who he believes is one of the NFL’s best QBs

CJ Stroud has quickly established himself as one of the quarterbacks to watch in the NFL. The Houston Texans signal-caller has already led his team to a division title, showcasing his full array of talent. However, in a recent conversation with the media, he shared who he believes is currently the best at the position—without naming Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes.

Both selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud and Bryce Young share more than just their entry into the league with different teams. The two quarterbacks have known each other for years, and their relationship goes well beyond football.

While the Carolina Panthers player faced some early setbacks adjusting to the league, his counterpart from the Texans didn’t hesitate to praise his progress — going as far as to call him one of the best at his position right now.

“He’s very even keeled, very to himself. I think I’ve seen a dog come out of him that he has that a lot of people haven’t seen,” Stroud said, via the Panthers website. “But I know he dealt with some frustrations. I think it’s good that we go through these ups and downs to refocus you back on what’s important. I think he had that, and I had that last year as well. I think he bounced back like he should, and we all know he can.

Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud attend Fanatics Fest NYC 2025 at Javits Center on June 20, 2025 in New York City.

“He’s a heck of a player, one of the best quarterbacks I’ve ever seen in my life. He needs some help around him too. I’m just really proud of that guy. Just the same way he said about me, through every ups and downs, every valley and peak, he stayed the same guy, stayed loyal and stayed a friend and a brother. So, I’m very appreciative of him.”

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A talented 2023 class

The 2023 NFL Draft will forever be remembered for the quarterbacks who headlined the first round. With the first overall pick, the Carolina Panthers selected Alabama’s Bryce Young, a polished and cerebral passer whose poise and accuracy made him a top prospect.

The Houston Texans followed immediately with the second overall pick, taking Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, a pure pocket passer praised for his elite ball placement and processing speed. The first-round quarterback run concluded at pick No. 4 when the Indianapolis Colts drafted Anthony Richardson, the dynamic dual-threat from Florida whose raw athleticism and cannon arm drew comparisons to a generational talent.

While Young’s command and Stroud’s precision were seen as NFL-ready, Richardson’s incredible upside presented a high-risk, high-reward bet on his unique physical gifts. These three talents from the 2023 draft class have already begun to shape the future of their respective franchises, with their every move under a microscope as the NFL transitions into a new era of signal-callers.