Texans QB C.J. Stroud clears concussion protocol ahead of Colts game

Welcome back, C.J. Stroud.

Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed on Friday that both his Pro Bowl quarterback and defensive back Jalen Pitre would return and start in Week 13's matchup against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Stroud passed the concussion protocol ahead of Friday's walkthrough.

Stroud suffered a concussion in Week 9's loss against the Denver Broncos after cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine made a hit while sliding. The former No. 2 overall pick missed the remainder of the game, along with the next three ensuing matchups, while dealing with concussion symptoms.

Last week in Houston's 23-19 win over the Buffalo Bills, he was seen on the sidelines, interacting with teammates while offering up advice to Davis Mills. It's a small step, but it marked the first time that Stroud had been out in a public setting with teammates since sustaining the hit.

Sitting on a 3-0 winning streak with Mills at the helm, expectations are high with Stroud returning. Back in Week 10, Mills guided Houston toward a 19-point fourth-quarter comeback against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He also led a game-winning drive against the Tennessee Titans and gave the Texans enough points in the first half to secure a third straight win.

Both Mills and Ryans have stated they understand who is QB1 and that there would be zero controversy once he returns.

"C.J. is the starter for this team. I'm just doing everything I can to bring my best foot forward every day, make everyone else around me better and try to provide and play my role to my best ability when I get thrown in there," Mills said last week.

As for Pitre, his return is a welcome addition to the No. 1 scoring defense ahead of two of its toughest games. Prior to leaving in Week 9, his three interceptions were the most on the team. It's now moved to second behind safety Calen Bullock.

Pitre, who moved inside to the nickel position last season, has been one of the best run-defending tacklers in the NFL, which could be huge while trying to slow down the NFL's leading rusher in Indianapolis' Jonathan Taylor.

"Jonathan Taylor is an outstanding back and they've done a great job of running the football," Ryans said on Wednesday. "Now, if you overcommit to the run, he [Colt Shane Steichen] has a really intricate play action pass game that can really catch guys off guard if they're not exactly where they're supposed to be.”

Kickoff from Lucas Oil Stadium is scheduled for noon CT. The game will be televised on CBS.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans: QB C.J. Stroud cleared to play in Week 13 showdown vs. Colts