C.J. Stroud’s Parents: The Family Behind the NFL Star’s Journey

C.J. Stroud, quarterback for the Houston Texans, is quickly emerging as one of the brightest stars in the NFL. 

His spectacular performance during his rookie year in 2023 set the stage for a promising career, with fans and analysts alike eagerly watching his every move. 

However, behind Stroud’s success lies the support and guidance of his parents, Kimberly and Coleridge Bernard Stroud III. Their influence on his life has been crucial in shaping the man he is today, both on and off the field.

C.J. Stroud’s Parents: The Pillars of His Journey

Kimberly Stroud, C.J.’s mother, has been a constant source of strength for her son. After her separation from C.J.’s father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, Kimberly found herself raising four children on her own. 

She took on multiple jobs, including working as a property manager at a storage facility, to ensure her children had everything they needed. Kimberly’s determination and relentless work ethic served as a model for C.J., who learned early on the value of hard work and perseverance. 

Despite the challenges, she remained focused on providing a better life for her children. In addition to her role as a mother, she has also been instrumental in founding the C.J. Stroud Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping families in need, particularly single mothers. Kimberly’s leadership in this endeavor speaks to her commitment to giving back to the community. Her relationship with C.J. is one of deep admiration and mutual respect. 

He has often spoken about how his mother’s sacrifices fueled his desire to succeed. C.J.’s resilience and ambition are, in many ways, reflections of Kimberly’s strength.

Coleridge Bernard Stroud III: A Complicated Legacy

C.J. Stroud’s father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, has had a more turbulent path, which has shaped both his life and his son’s. 

Coleridge has been incarcerated since C.J. was in middle school, serving a 38-year sentence for a series of serious crimes committed in 2015, including carjacking, kidnapping, and robbery. 

His legal troubles were not confined to that year alone—he had previous convictions dating back to the 1990s for crimes such as drug possession and armed robbery. 

Although his criminal record has marred his legacy, it is important to remember that Coleridge had a positive influence on C.J.’s early years. 

Before his downfall, Coleridge was a pastor and businessman, and he co-founded the Life Application Christian Center in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Despite his mistakes, Coleridge’s role in C.J.’s formative years was significant, and C.J. has often expressed his desire to see his father released from prison. 

Their bond remains strong, with C.J. continuing to pray for his father’s release and hoping he can attend one of his games in the future.

A Family’s Struggles and Triumphs

The Stroud family has weathered many challenges over the years, but they have always found a way to push through. 

When Coleridge’s legal issues became public, the family was forced into financial hardship. C.J., at a young age, had to mature quickly and shoulder a great deal of responsibility. 

Kimberly worked tirelessly to keep the family afloat, and this effort did not go unnoticed by her children. C.J. took it upon himself to make sure his mother’s sacrifices were not in vain. 

One story that stands out is when C.J. played football in cleats that were too small for him. When Kimberly noticed the blisters on his feet, C.J. explained that he didn’t want to burden her. 

He knew how hard she worked to provide for the family. This moment highlighted C.J.’s maturity and understanding of his mother’s struggles. His determination to succeed and create a better life for Kimberly became a driving force behind his success.

As C.J. continued to excel on the field, he never forgot his roots. He and Kimberly launched the C.J. Stroud Foundation in 2023, a nonprofit dedicated to helping those in need. 

The foundation’s initial efforts focused on providing Thanksgiving meals, winter clothing, and other essentials to families in the Houston area. C.J. and his mother are passionate about supporting single mothers and other families who are struggling, a cause close to their hearts. 

The foundation is not just about charity; it’s about creating a legacy of giving and uplifting those who need it most. 

In an interview, Kimberly explained the importance of their work, saying that it’s not just about the name of the foundation, but what it stands for. 

Through their efforts, C.J. and Kimberly are building a community-oriented legacy that extends far beyond football.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

C.J. Stroud’s journey to the NFL is one marked by perseverance, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his family. While his father’s mistakes and legal issues have shaped the family’s history, they have not defined it. 

Through the struggles, C.J. and his mother have risen above their circumstances, using their experiences to fuel their passion for helping others. 

The creation of the C.J. Stroud Foundation is just one example of how they are giving back to their community. C.J.’s success on the field is just the beginning of a greater legacy that reflects his family’s strength and resilience.

People May Ask

Who are C.J. Stroud’s parents?

C.J. Stroud’s parents are Kimberly Stroud and Coleridge Bernard Stroud III. Kimberly raised C.J. as a single mother after her separation from Coleridge.

What happened to C.J. Stroud’s father?

C.J.’s father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III, is serving a 38-year prison sentence for carjacking, kidnapping, and robbery. He had a history of legal issues dating back to the 1990s.

How did Kimberly Stroud impact C.J. Stroud’s life?

Kimberly Stroud was a strong, resilient figure in C.J.’s life. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for her children, setting a powerful example of determination and sacrifice. C.J. credits her with inspiring him to achieve greatness.

What is the C.J. Stroud Foundation?

The C.J. Stroud Foundation is a nonprofit organization co-founded by C.J. and his mother. The foundation aims to support families in need, particularly single mothers, by providing Thanksgiving meals, clothing, and winter essentials to families in the Houston area.

Does C.J. Stroud maintain a relationship with his father?

Yes, despite his father’s incarceration, C.J. Stroud maintains a close relationship with him. He has expressed hope for his father’s release and has prayed for him to attend one of his NFL games.