Texans: No in-season contract talks with C.J. Stroud if no deal by Sept. 13

The Houston Texans have decided against extending current contract negotiations with quarterback C.J. Stroud during the season, with discussions set to pause unless a deal is reached prior to the Sept. 13 opener against Buffalo. General manager Nick Caserio revealed on Tuesday that if an agreement cannot be made by the start of the season, all talks will be temporarily halted until the offseason.

The Texans had previously acquired Stroud's fifth-year option, ensuring his team control through 2027. Since being drafted by the Texans with the second overall pick in the 2023 draft, Stroud has compiled a 28-18 record and led the team to the playoffs in each of his three seasons. In 2025, the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year completed a career-high 64% of his passes for Houston, who finished the season with a 12-5 record and advanced to the divisional round of the playoffs.

Stroud faced challenges during a playoff game against New England, throwing four interceptions in a 28-16 loss.