Texans Star CJ Stroud’s Father Imprisoned for Notorious Crime

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has quickly risen in prominence since being drafted second overall in the NFL. He was awarded Offensive Rookie of the Year and has led the Texans to consecutive playoff appearances. However, behind Stroud’s impressive athletic achievements lies a complex narrative of personal struggle and resilience.
C.J. Stroud’s Family Background
Stroud’s father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, is currently serving a prison sentence of 38 years to life. Incarcerated since 2016, his offense involved serious charges including carjacking, kidnapping, and robbery. Stroud was just 13 years old when his father was imprisoned.
Crime Details
- Year of Conviction: 2015
- Charges: Carjacking, kidnapping, robbery, and misdemeanor sexual battery
- Nature of the Crime: Stroud allegedly forced a woman to drive him to buy drugs while she was trapped in her car.
- Attempt to Evade: After the incident, he crashed a stolen vehicle and attempted to flee by jumping into the San Diego Bay.
Impact on C.J. Stroud
Despite the challenges he faced due to his father’s circumstances, Stroud chose to channel his experiences positively. He has become a role model for youth facing similar difficulties. Stroud often expresses his faith and dedication to leading by example.
He has also become an advocate for prison reform, famously wearing custom “FREE POPS” cleats during games. These symbolize his hope for his father’s eventual release; Coleridge is eligible for parole in 2040.
Stroud shared his feelings about his father’s situation, stating, “That’s what I’ve been battling with, trying to still be a family man and still be a football player.” He remains hopeful that he will one day see his father at one of his games.
Stroud’s Mother’s Perspective
Kim Stroud, C.J.’s mother, has spoken about her son’s resilience. She emphasized that he had a choice during this tough time: to either let his father’s actions define him or use them as motivation. She remarked, “I sit and I’m amazed at how resilient he is. C.J. is the most amazing human I have ever met.”
Conclusion
While C.J. Stroud enjoys remarkable success on the football field, his journey is shaped by adversity and the impact of his father’s actions. He stands as a testimony to perseverance, using his platform for advocacy while navigating the complexities of family and fame.