What Happened to CJ Stroud's Father?

By Jocelyn Alano June 06, 2024 13:30

C.J. Stroud, the second year quarterback for the Houston Texans, has captivated the NFL world with his exceptional skills and unwavering determination. However, behind his remarkable journey lies a compelling and tumultuous family story that has significantly shaped the person and player he is today.

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The Father, and the Twist of Fate

Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, the father of C.J. Stroud, played a major part in guiding his son. Coleridge also encouraged C.J. to follow Christianity and pushed him to excel in football as a former pastor himself. But just as his life was rocketing to new highs, a tragedy unaware seized Coleridge, who was sentenced to 38 years in prison, having a devastating effect on the young quarterback.

C.J.'s Nature, Mother's Nurture

When his father was locked up, C.J.'s mother, Kimberly Stroud, became the rock for the family. She was a single mother, working to support her kids and C.J. during that difficult time. That unfeigned commitment and sacrifice are the essence of C.J., however, who showed immense gratitude toward Mom for making him the man he is today.

C.J.'s Journey to NFL Stardom

Amid everything that was so frenzied, so volatile, C.J. Stroud channeled his will and abilities and soared into the upper pantheon of college football, no matter the backdrop. He triumphed an unbelievable rags-to-riches football story with his Ascension from turmoil to NFL success. Both a personal and professional journey, it has been a source of admiration and respect everywhere.

Activism for Criminal Justice Reform

C.J. Stroud on using father's incarceration as fuel for criminal justice reform In a postgame press conference, he spoke so passionately about what is wrong with the criminal justice system, and how it needs to change. His work with the Reform Alliance also speaks to his interest in making a difference in the world at large long after his playing career is over.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Most poignantly, C.J.'s dealings with his dad have been up to something of about-face. C.J. was able to forgive and understand his father, which took him a long time after many years estranged. And yet, for C.J., the upcoming reunion with his father in Folsom State Prison is the culmination of a stunning voyage of healing and empathy.

Molding C.J. Stroud as a Player and Person

The tales around C.J. Stroud's roots - from the adversities to the celebrations - have deeply intertwined in various ways that make him who he is, as a football player and as a person. His strength, compassion, and fight are inseparable from these hurdles - his pursuit in both life and football.

Conclusion

The nuanced layers to C.J. Stroud's story, framed against the backdrop of his father's imprisonment, are a powerful tale of perseverance and the human experience. His rise continues to ripple through the NFL, a tale of second chances and a survivor's willingness to forgive but also a singular example of the web weaves by a singular family when it comes to one person's pursuit of his dreams, a young man doing what he couldn't all before he was born: flourishing.
In unearthing the layers of depth within C.J. Stroud's personal and professional life, a clearer portrait emerges of the numerous layers that have contributed to molding him into both a fierce competitor and a thoughtful person. With every step he takes in his career, his tale is another tale of hardship to hope, another testament to the remarkable ability of forgiveness and strength.