'One of my biggest role models': Houston Texans star CJ Stroud praises Snoop Dogg for his coaching skills during SYFL days

HOUSTON, TEXAS: Snoop Dogg played a significant role in the success of Houston Texans star CJ Stroud. The young star, during a promotional event told People about his relationship with the celebrated rapper.

"I played for his league. He was one of the coaches that was running the league and he was part of the team that I was on," Stroud said referring to the Grammy winner’s Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL).”

What is Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) ?

It is a nonprofit organization offering inner-city children the chance to play football and was started in 2005.

“I was probably like sixth, seventh, eighth grade — around middle school," the star said.

Stroud has earlier spoken about his difficult football journey as he grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, California. "He used to invite us to his house and things like that," he said of Snoop.

"That goes a long way. It just seemed like it is more than where you come from. There's a lot more to life and he showed us that... So definitely really appreciative and grateful for Coach Snoop and everything that he's done."

He added, "I'm still in contact with him and he's been a blessing on my life for sure."

The footballer further praised the rapper, “[He] is definitely one of my biggest role models and a mentor of mine since being young. He's always been there."

Snoop Dogg admires CJ Stroud's competitiveness

Meanwhile, the ‘Lay Low’ crooner also remembered the special child from the league. “He’s so positive. That’s what I like about him is that he’s pushing a different narrative than a lot of these other guys in the league. He’s pushing a real narrative of spirit love and just being a voice of positivity,” the 52-year-old said.

On his new partnership with Cheetos, Stroud said, "Cheetos was one of my favorite snacks growing up, so I was really excited to partner with something that's a childhood memory.”

"I think it's a cool experience and I'm super blessed to be able to work with Cheetos," he said.

Stroud was drafted by the Texans as the second overall pick during the 2023 NFL Draft in April. He went on to take his team to the NFL divisional round in his first season, but their campaign ended with a loss to Baltimore Ravens on January 20.