The Houston Texans and quarterback C.J. Stroud have agreed to pause negotiations on a contract extension until after the 2026 season. The decision came after the two sides explored an agreement before the regular season began.
ESPN reporter Adam Schefter disclosed the development on X on Sept. 12, saying both sides now preferred to wait before pursuing a long-term contract. The report leaves Stroud’s future beyond his current agreement unresolved, while indicating that the Texans and quarterback remain interested in reaching a larger deal.
Stroud is under contract through the 2027 season because of the fifth-year option attached to his rookie contract. The report said offseason discussions had included possible figures ranging from $50 million to $55 million, with another figure near $70 million also having been discussed.
The two sides will now turn their attention to the 2026 season. The report said Stroud has received praise for his offseason preparation and has used his struggles in difficult conditions during 2025 as motivation for the upcoming campaign.
