Tedy Bruschi, Alex Smith spar over C.J. Stroud in tense ESPN scene

Tedy Bruschi and Alex Smith couldn’t agree on C.J.Stroud.And they weren’t exactly quiet about it.“I am worried about the Houston Texans,” Bruschi said on the set of ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown.” “C.J.

Stroud coming off of that playoff loss in New England and what he did this offseason in turning down a big contract offer.I don’t want my quarterback on this team to go out there and say, ‘This is a prove-it year for me.'”Bruschi later continued, “C.J.

Stroud wants to be paid like he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the league,” where he was then cut off by Smith, who vehemently disagreed.“He is, though, Teddy, he is.He is one of the best quarterbacks in the league,” Smith interjected.

“He is one of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL.Fact.”Bruschi retorted, “Okay, you throw in the word ‘young’ in there, he’s not the best okay.” Bruschi argued that Stroud doesn’t need to produce massive individual numbers for Houston to contend, pointing to the Texans’ defense and improved running game as the team’s strengths.“I don’t want my quarterback wanting to throw for 4,500 yards,” Bruschi said.Smith, however, argued that Stroud’s production needed more context, particularly considering Houston’s offensive line issues and lack of consistency around him last season.“I know the playoffs were ugly for C.J.

Stroud, but again, there is not a quarterback in the league that would’ve succeeded in that situation last year.This guy’s offensive line is terrible, they’re nearly dead-last in pass protection as well.

Outside of Nico Collins, who got hurt and was out of the playoffs, he has nobody to throw to.They traded away Laremy Tunsil, they fired their (offensive coordinator), they have All-Pros on defense.

They spent more money on their two defensive ends than their entire offensive lines.”Smith added that Stroud does not have the luxury of throwing to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins like his Bengals count...