C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans remain separated by about $10 million in contract negotiations, with Stroud seeking $60 million per year and the team currently offering $50 million. The dispute comes as Houston evaluates whether to extend its quarterback before the start of the season.
Stroud’s rookie campaign produced 4,105 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and five interceptions. In each of the past two seasons, he has surpassed 3,000 passing yards, but he has not reached 20 touchdown passes in either year and has thrown more interceptions than he did as a rookie.
The Texans exercised Stroud’s fifth-year option, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. The team has said an extension would be pushed to the next offseason if an agreement is not reached before Week 1. Houston’s first game is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday, although a deal could still be completed before kickoff.
The contract question has also been complicated by Stroud’s postseason performance. The FanSided report says his play contributed to losses against Pittsburgh and New England last season, while noting that Houston’s offense has also dealt with Tank Dell’s injury history, a mediocre offensive line and an ineffective running game.
The report says Stroud’s performance in 2026 could determine whether Houston views him as a quarterback deserving of the $60 million level. If the sides do not reach an agreement, Houston could delay the extension for two more offseasons, including the possibility of using the franchise tag after Stroud’s current contract expires.
