Texans QB C.J. Stroud remains in concussion protocol entering Week 13

Right now, the Houston Texans hope to have Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud back for Week 13's matchup against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Entering Friday's practice, his status still remains a mystery.

Stroud, who has practiced the last three days, still remains in concussion protocol as the Texans finish their final walkthroughs before leaving for a battle in the AFC South. Until an independent doctor has cleared the third-year starter from all symptoms, he technically must remain on the injury report despite being listed as a full participant.

“For the protocol, each guy has their own steps and what they have to pass.” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said Wednesday. “It’s a lot of different steps, and each guy is different when it comes to the symptoms that they’re having and what they’re feeling. So, whatever they report that they’re feeling, we’re going to take that to heart and make sure we’re taking extra precautions with the guys when it’s a concussion.”

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, Stroud 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 he's been out in a public setting with teammates since sustaining the hit.

Should the Texans turn back to Mills, it wouldn't be a death sentence, though there would be some limitations to the offensive personnel. 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.

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: C.J. Stroud remains in concussion protocol ahead of Colts game