The Houston Texans have built a team where C.J. Stroud doesn’t have to carry everything. He has the defense to protect him; now he needs his offense to elevate. Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, Derek Stingley Jr., Kamari Lassiter and Azeez Al-Shaair give Houston impact players at every level. That changes the job for Stroud, who does not need to throw 35 times every Sunday.
The Baker Mayfield situation is so interesting, because he is not viewed in quite the same category as the league’s unquestioned $60 million quarterbacks. But he is much more than a quarterback a team simply plugs in and hopes survives. He has already shown he can take a good roster deep into the postseason and has established himself as a legitimate starter in Tampa Bay.
Mayfield is entering the final year of his three-year, $100 million contract, and extension talks with Tampa Bay have stalled. He will play 2026 without a new deal unless something changes.
Stroud has a much different resume than Mayfield. He won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2023 season, and has already led Houston to three straight playoff appearances. But his 2025 season left enough questions for the Texans to hesitate before handing him a massive extension.
Stroud now has the same opportunity Mayfield and Sam Darnold had at different points. Prove that the talent everyone saw early in his career is still the version worth paying for.
2026 is Stroud’s Chance to set his Own Price
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Stroud’s 2025 numbers explain why the Texans are waiting. His QBR of 61.7 ranked 11th, which shows the season was not a collapse. The bigger concern came in the playoffs. He threw for 462 yards with two touchdowns and five interceptions across two games, finishing with a 51.8 passer rating.
The contract deadline gives Stroud a reason to bet on himself. General manager Nick Caserio said the Texans will negotiate until the start of the season, but if there is no agreement, talks will move to the offseason. With the quarterback market already reaching roughly $60 million per year, waiting could be financially smart if Stroud has a breakout season.
Houston’s running game can make Stroud’s job easier. Woody Marks led Houston with 703 rushing yards in 2025, giving the offense a foundation it can build around. The arrival of David Montgomery adds another experienced option and should help Houston control the pace of games.
If Stroud protects the ball and becomes more consistent in the red zone, his contract conversation can change quickly.
