n an unexpected twist in the sports world, Snoop Dogg, widely recognized for his music career, has played a significant role in shaping the future of Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud. Known to Stroud as “Coach Snoop,” the rapper’s influence extends beyond the entertainment industry into the realm of youth football coaching.
During a recent discussion about his partnership with Cheetos, Stroud, 22, shared with PEOPLE his experiences playing in the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL), a nonprofit initiative founded by Snoop Dogg in 2005 aimed at providing inner-city children with opportunities to engage in football. “He was one of the coaches that was running the league and he was part of the team that I was on,” Stroud recounted, reflecting on his middle school days within the league.
Snoop Dogg’s mentorship has left a lasting impact on Stroud, who regards the rapper as one of his most significant role models and mentors from a young age. This bond was highlighted as Snoop Dogg recently expressed his pride in seeing his former youth athletes succeed professionally, referring to Stroud as “so laser-focused” and a beacon of positivity in the sport.
Stroud’s admiration for Snoop Dogg is mutual, emphasizing the rapper’s relatability and understanding of the struggles faced by young athletes. Snoop Dogg’s personal involvement, including inviting players to his home, has been a source of inspiration and guidance for Stroud, showcasing a side of the rapper that transcends his celebrity status.
The quarterback’s journey from the SYFL to the NFL has been marked by significant achievements, including leading the Texans to the NFL divisional round in his debut season and a nomination for the “Rookie of the Year” award at the 2024 NFL Honors. Off the field, Stroud’s collaboration with Cheetos for a Super Bowl watch party highlights his rise as a star athlete and his connection to childhood memories.
As Stroud prepares for the NFL Honors and the Super Bowl festivities in Las Vegas, his relationship with Snoop Dogg remains a testament to the rapper’s influence as a mentor and coach, proving that Snoop Dogg’s impact on the world of sports is as profound as his legacy in music.
