Four Interceptions in the Playoffs, Yet Stroud Is Still “The Best QB”, Says Will Anderson Jr (Vidoe)

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The NFL playoffs are all about pressure, drama, and occasionally performances that make fans consider turning off their WiFi and calling it a night. C.J. Stroud delivered exactly that kind of afternoon against the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round. Four interceptions, all of them coming in the first half. Yes, four. As a result, the Houston Texans saw their season come to an end with a 28–16 loss.

What makes it more ironic is that the Texans defense did its job. They forced three turnovers from the Patriots, which should normally be enough to keep a team competitive in a playoff game. Instead, the Texans still looked outmatched. During the game, social media was flooded with calls to bench Stroud at halftime. However, head coach DeMeco Ryans showed no panic, sticking with his quarterback and later confirming that Stroud remains the franchise QB going forward.

Then came the postgame comments that truly caught everyone’s attention. Texans star pass rusher Will Anderson Jr did more than just offer routine support. He revealed a message he personally delivered to Stroud in the locker room, a statement that instantly became headline material and meme fuel at the same time.

#Texans DE Will Anderson said he told CJ Stroud “I still think you’re the best quarterback in the league hands down.” pic.twitter.com/7qIrgoTNSA
— DJ Bien-Aime (@Djbienaime) January 19, 2026

That quote raised eyebrows for obvious reasons. Calling someone the best quarterback in the league immediately after a four interception playoff performance is either the ultimate sign of loyalty or next level motivational speaking. Looking at the numbers, reality paints a harsher picture. Stroud finished the game completing 20 of 47 passes for 212 yards, one touchdown, and those four costly interceptions.

Still, belief inside the Texans locker room appears unshaken. Stroud is entering the final year of his rookie contract, with the team already exercising his fifth year option. How this playoff meltdown impacts his future contract talks remains a major storyline heading into the offseason. One bad playoff game does not erase his talent, but in the NFL, timing matters, and postseason performances are remembered longer than regular season highlights.

In the end, this situation perfectly sums up life in the NFL. One week you are a hero, the next week you are a walking meme. Yet sometimes, all it takes is one teammate’s confidence to flip the narrative. Whether Stroud lives up to the “best QB” label or this becomes just a moment of locker room encouragement will be something fans will be watching closely next season.

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