The Houston Texans have decided to halt contract negotiations with quarterback C.J. Stroud at the start of the regular season. General manager Nick Caserio announced that if an agreement is not finalized before the team's opener against Buffalo on September 13, talks will be postponed until the next offseason.
Stroud, the second overall pick in the 2023 draft, has had his fifth-year option exercised, ensuring his contract with the Texans runs through 2027. Although Caserio had previously suggested a possible extension before the season, no deal is currently in progress.
At just 24 years old, Stroud boasts a record of 28-18 and has guided the Texans to playoff appearances in each of his first three seasons. He was recognized as the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 and achieved a career-high completion rate of 64% in 2025, contributing to a 12-5 record and a divisional playoff run.
However, he encountered difficulties in the postseason, notably throwing five interceptions in a 28-16 defeat to New England. Details regarding future negotiations remain undisclosed.