Veterans who could replace Stroud underperformed in 2025 and are on expensive contracts. Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa, entering the third year of a four-year, $212.4M contract, tossed a career-high 15 interceptions in 2025. Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray, meanwhile, is entering the fourth year of a five-year, $230.5M deal and went 2-3 in five starts before missing the rest of the season because of a foot injury.
So, Houston trading Stroud this offseason would be senseless. Still, that doesn’t change that he’s entering one of the most important seasons of his career in 2026.
Why C.J. Stroud remains on the hot seat heading into 2026
Since winning the 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year Award, Stroud has regressed. The former Ohio State Buckeyes standout posted career lows in passing yards (3,041) and passing touchdowns (19) in 2025. In the postseason, he threw two TD passes and five interceptions, costing Houston a chance to make its first conference championship game in franchise history.
Better QB play would’ve helped the Texans win their first Super Bowl last season. Houston went 12-5, making the playoffs for a third consecutive season. The team finished second in the NFL in points allowed (17.3 points per game) behind the Seattle Seahawks (16.9 PPG), Super Bowl LX champions.
“I look back, and I just feel like I let people down, not happy with that,” Stroud told the media after a 28-16 loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC divisional round. “You know, it hurts.”
Stroud promised to “respond” after the postseason loss to New England. If he doesn’t, his future will become murkier.
Stroud is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract in 2026, which includes a fifth-year option. Spotrac estimates his market value at $51.6M annually over a three-year deal, 10th among QBs. Houston can’t justify paying him that much if he produces another underwhelming season in 2026.
Caserio isn’t planning to trade Stroud this offseason. However, if the situation remains the same in 2027, he may entertain offers for the passer.