The Houston Texans' dynamic quarterback, C.J. Stroud, has emerged victorious as the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Pepsi® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year accolade, jointly announced by Pepsi and the NFL. This coveted title was bestowed upon Stroud following a resounding fan vote on nfl.com/rookies, underscoring his meteoric rise in the league.

As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Stroud's stellar performance left an indelible mark on the gridiron, etching his name in NFL history books. Notably, he amassed the third-highest passing yards tally by a rookie in NFL annals, showcasing a level of poise and skill beyond his years. Additionally, Stroud's exceptional passer rating of 100-or-higher firmly established him as a force to be reckoned with, placing him among an elite cohort of rookie quarterbacks.

In a heartfelt acceptance speech delivered via video, Stroud humbly attributed his success to divine guidance, expressing gratitude to his loved ones, teammates, and coaches for their unwavering support. He remarked, "It’s a blessing to be named the 2023 Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year, especially considering all of the great players in my rookie class that were also nominated along with those that have won the honor before me."

Stroud's remarkable achievements on the field are a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. Throughout the season, he consistently demonstrated his prowess, amassing an impressive array of milestones, including six games with over 300 passing yards – a feat matched by few rookies in NFL history. Notably, his remarkable streak of four consecutive games with 300+ passing yards solidified his status as a rising star in the league.

Moreover, Stroud's ability to protect the football while generating explosive plays was instrumental in his success, with nine games featuring at least 250 passing yards – a record-breaking achievement for a rookie quarterback. His unprecedented streak of 191 pass attempts without an interception at the start of his career stands as a testament to his composure under pressure and exceptional decision-making on the field.

Amongst stiff competition, Stroud emerged as the standout candidate for the prestigious award, besting a field of exceptional rookies including De’Von Achane, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Puka Nacua, and Bijan Robinson. The rigorous selection process, which involved weekly fan voting for the Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Week, culminated in Stroud's well-deserved triumph.

This historic milestone underscores the enduring partnership between Pepsi and the NFL, now in its 23rd year. As the Official Soft Drink of the NFL, Pepsi continues to champion excellence and celebrate the brightest talents in professional football.

As C.J. Stroud's journey continues to unfold, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and impact on the gridiron. With boundless potential and unwavering determination, Stroud embodies the spirit of excellence that defines the NFL's brightest stars.

For the latest updates on C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans, stay tuned to nfl.com and join us in celebrating the triumphs of tomorrow's legends today.