CITY PRIDE: From Faith to Fame C.J. Stroud Named to Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports — A Story Bigger Than Football.
Houston is proud again. At 23, Houston Texans star C.J. Stroud has been named to TIME Magazine’s “Top 100 Most Influential in Sports.” A milestone that speaks not only of talent, but also of influence beyond the field.
As a boy in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Stroud has turned adversity into strength. Raised by his mother, Kimberly Stroud, alone, he grew up with love, faith, and resilience. Now, he is not just the face of the Texans, but a symbol of hope and kindness.
TIME describes him as “a new kind of quarterback — one who leads with conviction, plays with purpose, and inspires with every throw.” And indeed, Stroud is changing the image of the NFL — where character is not measured by scores, but by how people live and give back.
Off the field, Stroud founded the Next Play Foundation, a nonprofit that helps disadvantaged youth pursue their dreams through education and mentorship. More than $2 million in scholarships has been awarded, and dozens of learning centers have been opened. He’s not just playing football — he’s rewriting the concept of “leadership” through acts of kindness.
“I’ve been blessed to live my dream,” Stroud shared in an interview with TIME, “but the real victory is helping others pursue theirs.” The quote quickly went viral, becoming a symbol of humility and faith.
From Patrick Mahomes to LeBron James, a host of legends have sent their congratulations. And in Houston, walls have been painted with Stroud’s image — not just in uniform, but among children and a book bearing the Next Play logo.
Journalist John McClain writes, “Stroud didn’t just change the Texans — he changed Houston. He proved that greatness can be accompanied by kindness.” And now the world sees it, too.
For Stroud, this isn’t a destination — it’s a beginning. Because, as he says, “I don’t want to just play football. I want to change people’s lives. That’s my God-given purpose.”
