The Houston Texans decided not to give Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud a contract extension in the offseason.
Now, despite how the team is performing, Stroud is playing like a franchise quarterback who is fighting for his contract.
Texans general manager Nick Caserio said they made Stroud an offer, which was speculated to be around $50 million in annual salary. However, Stroud decided not to take the offer and instead wait a year, bet on himself and try to get at least $60 million a year.
“Nobody was reluctant on anything. We had discussions. We made an offer. All right, couldn't quite come to a final resolution or agreement. That happens. It's not the first time, it's not the last time,” Caserio said. “Again, nobody's discouraged. I have a lot of respect for C.J. and [Stroud’s agent] David [Mulugheta] and their group. I mean, I'm sure at some point that will take care of itself.”
Nick Caserio on contract talks with C.J. Stroud:
— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) October 26, 2026
“We had really good discussions, we were pretty close. I don’t think anybody’s really too worried about it. The contract will take care of itself whenever that is. I don’t think anybody’s surprised with how he’s played, he’s been… pic.twitter.com/H4H4tyj2lZ
There are currently 13 quarterbacks in the NFL making at least $50 million a year, while there are only two making at least $60 million a year: Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowler Dak Prescott and three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Only six quarterbacks who started the season as their team’s starter make less than Stroud, including Atlanta's Michael Penix Jr., New York's Jaxson Dart and Minnesota's Kyler Murray.
Four of them are on their rookie contract and are expecting larger contracts in the next few years.
Through the first seven games, Stroud has the fourth-most passing yards in the NFL, the seventh-highest quarterback rating, and only one interception compared to 11 touchdown passes. He is currently on pace for 27 passing touchdowns, which would be his career-high.
Stroud currently has a completion percentage of 64.8; if that holds, it would be his highest in his career. He's been the best part of a downtrodden Texans' team amid two wins, which could be doubled given Stroud's play of Stroud and the insufficient play of Houston's defense.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Are the Texans close to a contract extension with C.J. Stroud? GM Nick Caserio provides update