LeBron James backs $36,279,000 Texans star despite struggles as team advanced to divisional round vs Chiefs

Despite the Hoston Texans' rollercoaster season and CJ Stroud's slump in his sophomore campaign, LeBron James is supporting him as his team prepares for its divisional round clash against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

The LA Lakers star opened up about the challenges Stroud and the Texans are facing. He said that losing Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell left a noticeable void in the team.

"I felt like the Texans, they hadn't played consistent football all year, you know," James said, via the 'New Heights' podcast. And obviously, losing (Stefon Diggs) and losing (Tank Dell) — big pieces. And my boy CJ Stroud has been struggling a little bit this year."

He added that despite the absence of star players, it didn’t stop the Texans from finding their footing.

"I felt like the Chargers were coming in strong," James said. "But turnovers, we all know the name of the game in sports, especially in football. Man, it’s turnovers."

James also credited the Texans' defense for stepping up and forcing critical turnovers that changed the game on Saturday against the LA Chargers.

The Texans barely made it into the playoffs; however, they are determined to upset the Chiefs.

This kind of support from a champion like James could give Houston the motivation it needs to tackle Kansas City head-on.

LeBron James-backed CJ Stroud had an incredible rookie season but 2024 has been tough for the QB

After a standout rookie season that made fans believe in his future, CJ Stroud has struggled in his sophomore campaign. The offensive line has failed to provide Stroud with the support he needs and his top weapons got injured.

Stroud, who signed a $36.3 million contract in July 2023, has faced pressure like never before. It led to a drop in performance from last season where he threw for over 4,000 yards.

In their wild-card game, the Texans' defense came through and forced key turnovers to make up for mistakes on offense. Stroud made some great plays but couldn't get the offense fully going. Facing the Kansas City Chiefs next, the pressure is at its peak.