Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud is entering the 2026 season with his future in the Lone Star State uncertain. According to ESPN, the Texans are prepared to make Stroud one of the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks, with an offer of at least $50 million per season. However, Stroud appears to be leveraging his position, potentially aiming for a larger payday in 2028 when he can become a free agent.
By delaying a contract extension, Stroud can allow the free-agent quarterback market to influence his valuation. This strategy becomes particularly relevant as other prominent quarterbacks, such as two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, are also set to have their contracts expire in 2028. Currently, only seven NFL players, all quarterbacks, are projected to earn at least $50 million in salary this season. In contrast, Stroud's 2026 salary is reported to be $5.7 million, placing him 478th in the league, according to Spotrac.
General manager Nick Caserio stated that contract negotiations will be paused until the next offseason if an agreement is not reached before the Texans' September 13 opener against Buffalo. Houston has already exercised its option to keep Stroud under team control through 2027.
Stroud, 24, has led the Texans to the playoffs in each of his three seasons since being selected second overall in the 2023 draft, compiling a 28-18 record. He was named the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 and completed a career-best 64 percent of his passes in 2025, helping Houston to a 12-5 record and a divisional round playoff appearance. Despite these successes, the team's postseason run ended with a 28-16 loss to New England, in which Stroud threw four interceptions.
Offensively, the Texans have added running back David Montgomery via trade and made moves to strengthen the offensive line. They also recently acquired receiver Kayshon Boutte from the Patriots, providing Stroud with another receiving option alongside Nico Collins.
The team's defense is expected to be a significant strength, building on its performance from the previous season. Houston's defense led the NFL in yards allowed last season and ranked second in points allowed. Key figures on defense include star defensive end Will Anderson Jr., who recently signed a three-year, $150 million contract extension making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, and veteran defensive end Danielle Hunter. The pass rush also receives a boost with the return of Jadeveon Clowney.