Where do things stand with the Houston Texans and quarterback C.J. Stroud on a new contract entering the 2026 NFL season?
According to reports, nothing seems promising ahead of training camp.
ESPN’s D.J. Bien-Aime recently reported that while the Texans still view Stroud as the quarterback of the future following three playoff victories, the two sides are “far apart” in getting a new deal done before Week 1 rolls around. Stroud, the former No. 2 overall pick, had his fifth-year option picked up last month and will still be with the Texans through the 2027 NFL season.
“Stroud and the Texans aren’t close to a deal as of late June,” Bien-Aime wrote. “Houston and its quarterback are in a tricky spot because last season did not end the way either would’ve preferred. Stroud threw four interceptions against the Patriots in the AFC divisional round. A performance like that can cause hesitation when the extension for Stroud could be in the $55 million to $60 million range per year. With how negotiations are currently going, it’s gearing up to be a prove-it season for Stroud.”
Stroud has been successful for the Texans in his three seasons. His 28-18 record in three years marks the best start for a passer in franchise history to begin their tenure. After a rocky 2024 season, Stroud seemed more comfortable under new play-caller Nick Caley, upping his completion percentage to 64 percent while cutting his turnover ratio in half.
But the postseason struggles were evident and cost Houston a spot in the AFC title game. Stroud, who guided Houston to a 12-win campaign, threw seven interceptions in two games, including four in the divsional round loss to the New England Patriots.
The Texans believe Stroud can be the quarterback of the future, but they’re being decisive on forking out a contract worth over $60 million annually. Names like All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and defensive end Danielle Hunter have lived up to the billing on nearly every snap, which is why Houston wasn’t shy on giving them new deals.
Stroud, who could be franchise tagged in 2028 if he plays well, should be the favorite to lead the Texans to their first Super Bowl appearance. The team drastically changed its approach to the offensive line and run game this offseason with new additions like David Montgomery, Wyatt Teller and first-round pick Keylan Rutledge.
Everything will come down to his execution in high pressure situatuons. If he delivers, a new deal could be done by the season’s end.
If not, Houston could be looking at an escape route.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Report: Texans still ‘not close’ on contract extension for Pro Bowl QB C.J. Stroud
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cole Thompson, Texans Wire | USA TODAY Network
