Overview
- Multiple reports published Saturday say Houston has yet to hold serious long-term talks with Stroud.
- The Texans picked up Stroud’s fifth-year option for 2027 at roughly $25 million, which keeps team control and buys evaluation time.
- Executives polled by ESPN offered split advice, from a three-year offer around $42–45 million per season to using the franchise tag after his rookie deal.
- Caution stems from recent play as Stroud’s 2025 numbers dipped to 3,041 yards and 19 touchdowns and he committed seven turnovers in two postseason games.
- Houston already extended Will Anderson Jr. for three years and $150 million with a rare no-trade clause, highlighting a different approach with its two 2023 first-rounders.