On Tuesday, the Houston faithful learned that Stroud was still dealing with symptoms and had not graduated from the NFL’s concussion protocol.
As a result, the Texans added to their depth, signing veteran quarterback Tim Boyle to the practice squad.

The only reason for the move is to add more depth to the quarterback room in the rear. Because of his experience in big games, third-string quarterback Case Keenum was selected to start against Tennessee. With 23 of 36 passes for 229 yards, one touchdown, and an interception, he performed well enough to win.

However, without Stroud out and Keenum with the starters, a body was needed. Boyle fits the bill. He’s a career backup with experience behind New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who he followed from Green Bay.

When he got the chance to play this season, it wasn’t pretty. He threw for just 360 yards on 77 attempts, tossing a touchdown and four interceptions. The Jets did not win a game that he appeared in this season.

It is unlikely that he will play on Sunday when the Houston (8-6) Browns (9-5) visit Cleveland. Deshaun Watson, Cleveland’s starting quarterback, will also be sidelined. The team has since shifted to veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as a backup after Dorian Thompson-Robinson and P.J. Walker proved to be ineffective in leading the offense.

Stroud is yet to be ruled out, but adding Boyle is a sign that the Texans may be without their rookie phenom for a second consecutive week, creating an even more arduous path to the AFC playoffs.

The crucial match of Week 16 will begin at noon on Sunday, December 24 on CBS.