C.J. Stroud, Texans Pause Contract Talks, Latest NFL Rumors on Timeline for Long-Term Deal

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud reportedly won't receive a new contract until the 2026 season comes to a close.

ESPN's Adam Schefter and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Saturday that Stroud and the Texans "made a run" at finalizing a contract extension before the start of the regular season, but both sides "agreed they now prefer to wait" until after the year to figure out a long-term agreement.

The quarterback market for the 2027 season affected Stroud's decision despite being "more than open" to a deal, per Schefter and Rapoport.

The signal-caller is currently under contract through his 2027 campaign after the Texans picked up his fifth-year option.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler previously reported that Stroud was prepared to play out this season without a new deal as well.

Fowler noted that Houston made "what it considered a competitive offer" to the passer, but an agreement wasn't reached.

Texans general manager Nick Caserio confirmed that negotiations with Stroud wouldn't take place during the regular season on Sept. 1.

"If we don't get it figured out before the season starts, then it'll be something we address in the offseason," Caserio said at the time, per ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime.

Stroud is entering his fourth season as Houston's starter under center.

He immediately excelled after the Texans selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors as well as a Pro Bowl nod.

While Stroud wasn't as efficient over his next two seasons compared to his inaugural year, he still threw for 6,768 yards and 39 touchdowns compared to 20 interceptions over that span.

It's worth noting that he particularly struggled during Houston's playoff run last season, which ended in the divisional round. In two postseason contests, Stroud completed just 51.9 percent of his throws for 462 yards and two touchdowns compared to five interceptions.

He'll now look to put together a resurgent year and help the Texans go on a deeper playoff run. If Stroud is able to do so, it isn't hard to imagine him signing a hefty contract extension in 2027.

Houston will open the 2026 season against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. ET.