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Texans Back C.J. Stroud, Exercise Fifth-Year Option

The decision sets up a prove-it 2026 with contract talks reportedly quiet.

Overview

  • Texans owner Cal McNair said Monday the team is “fully committed” to Stroud and confirmed it picked up his fifth-year option, which sets a $25.9 million salary for 2027.
  • ESPN reporting says there has been little movement on a long-term extension through late April, signaling Houston plans to evaluate Stroud’s 2026 season first.
  • The cautious approach follows two down years that included a 2025 line of 3,041 yards, 19 touchdowns and 8 interceptions and a four-interception divisional loss to the Patriots.
  • Stroud has tightened his offseason routine with a no-sugar, low-carb diet, visible weight loss, and voluntary field work, including new team video of throws with receiver Tank Dell.
  • The option keeps his current deal in place and preserves team leverage as analysts label 2026 a high-pressure year for his next contract, and the club has dismissed trade chatter as “moronic.”