Houston Texans make decision on C.J. Stroud’s future

As the NFL begins offseason workouts, teams are evaluating their rosters and preparing for scenarios surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft.

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The deadline to pick up fifth-year options for first-round picks from the 2023 draft class is also approaching, and some teams have already declined those options.

The Houston Texans face an interesting situation. They have picked up star defender Will Anderson’s option but still needed to decide on quarterback C.J. Stroud.

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It appears they have made that decision.

Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) greets Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers following their AFC Wild Card Round game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Reports indicate the Texans have exercised Stroud’s fifth-year option, guaranteeing he will remain on the roster through at least the 2027 season — barring an unforeseen trade.

Stroud has been a somewhat polarizing figure since the end of Houston’s 2025 season. His play has not taken the step forward many expected.

However, he has led the Texans to the postseason in each of his first three seasons. Most recently, he secured the franchise’s first road playoff victory.

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His performance in the 2025 playoffs, though, was far from dominant. Stroud turned the ball over at a high rate and failed to advance past the divisional round once again.

Dec 14, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) celebrates with wide receiver Nico Collins (12) after a touchdown during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The former Ohio State standout also endured a fairly pedestrian, injury-filled 2025 campaign. After a stellar rookie season, he has yet to make the anticipated leap.

Injuries to his supporting cast have contributed to that. Nico Collins and Tank Dell have both dealt with injuries over the past two seasons.

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Dell missed the entire 2025 season. Stroud had strongly advocated for him during the 2023 season and quickly developed chemistry with the receiver.

New Orleans Saints v Houston Texans | Cooper Neill/GettyImages

Stroud will enter his fourth season with his role secure, but the Texans may view this year as a proving ground for further development. If he fails to take that next step, the team could explore trade options in 2027.

That scenario remains unlikely, however, given the difficulty of moving his cap hit if the Texans choose to move on.

For now, Stroud remains Houston’s quarterback for the foreseeable future.

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