C.J. Stroud declined to engage with comments from former Houston Texans great Andre Johnson, who questioned the quarterback's body language on the "LGND Talk" podcast. Johnson, a Hall of Fame wideout, told host Kendrick Perkins that he personally dislikes Stroud's body language, calling it "bad." When asked about it Wednesday, Stroud took the high road, saying, "I respect Dre as a person, I appreciate his critiques. But I'm focused on this week, going 1-0 this week [against the Bengals]. I respect Dre, and if that conversation needs to be had, it'll be had."

Stroud has previously acknowledged wanting to improve his body language, particularly during difficult moments in games. Johnson argued that poor body language from a quarterback can negatively impact the entire team, stating, "Because other guys look at you as the quarterback. So, when they see you feeling a certain way, it kind of trickles through the team."

Coach De Meco Ryans, who played alongside Johnson in Houston from 2005 to 2011, said he wasn't aware of the comments. All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson strongly defended Stroud, saying, "I think C.J.'s been doing a phenomenal job since his rookie year to now with great body language. He's getting guys going, leading that group of guys over there and having enthusiasm and having fun on the sideline."

Stroud finished with 287 yards passing and two touchdowns in Houston's 36-31 season-opening loss to the Buffalo Bills, though he also lost two fumbles that contributed to the defeat.