Texans QB C.J. Stroud fires back at Colts: 'Indy hates me already and I love it'

The Houston Texans-Indianapolis Colts rivalry is getting a lot of offseason smoke ahead of their Week 1 faceoff.

Earlier this offseason, Colts linebackers Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed tossed shade at C.J. Stroud and the Texans. Franklin noted at one point, “I need to see that boy again,” while Speed added that he respects Stroud but is “going to (mess) C.J. up for the rest of his career.”

Stroud was asked about the Colts’ comments on the “Million Dollaz Worth of Game” podcast that dropped this week.

“A lot of dudes come on these podcasts, ‘Oh yeah, I’m going to hit C.J. in his face, I’m going to get him next year,’ ” Stroud said, via the Houston Chronicle. “Where I’m from, we say, ‘Why didn’t you do something when you were mad?’ You were mad right there: Do something. You could have made hella plays, bro. You could have made plays, dog. You could have shut me up right there, but you didn’t. So what makes you think you’re gonna do it now? And if you do, I’m gonna come back, bro. For real. This ain’t for no play, bro. Come on.”

Stroud welcomed the exchange with the rivals from the AFC South.

“I’m thrilled,” expressed Stroud. “We’re playing at their ground. It’s going to be lively. Indy already despises me and I absolutely relish it.”

Stroud clearly expressed his respect for Franklin, Speed, and the rest of the Colts. However, he also made it clear that he won’t be backing down.

Stroud responded to Franklin’s off-season comments, saying, “He certainly has talent, but it’s all talk. I’m not bothered by it. What’s the point? I’m also ready to compete. It’s not just him, I’m equally competitive. I respect him for his recent contract. I’m genuinely happy for him and fully support the financial success of any Black man in this league, in fact, anyone in general. He deserves the remuneration. He’s indeed a good player, and he’s aware of it. That’s what I appreciate: two fierce competitors ready for a showdown.”

They will rumble in Indianapolis in Week 1.