Why Texans are shaking at the thought of C.J. Stroud extension

Adam Schultz

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Why Texans are shaking at the thought of C.J. Stroud extension image

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The Houston Texans once again got bounced in the postseason, with C.J. Stroud playing a role in the 28-16 loss to the New England Patriots.

Four first-half interceptions weren't great, neither were a handful of other poor decisions as the Patriots' defense mauled C.J.

But the loss has now raised an interesting and uncomfortable question regarding Stroud and the Texans: will the franchise re-sign him?

After his rookie season, Stroud has regressed every year, and it's glaring. With another season before the Texans can exercise their team option, time is running out for C.J. To become the quarterback the franchise wants.

But will Houston re-sign Stroud? CBS Sports' Tyler Sullivan thinks so.

“The short answer is yes,” Sullivan wrote. “Houston really has no other choice but to pay Stroud among the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league. Will the Texans feel great about it? No way -- how could they after what they just saw this postseason?

"As much as their hand may be shaking with the pen in their hand, however, they'll do the deal and hope Stroud rekindles the magic from his rookie campaign.”

More: ESPN casts doubt on C.J. Stroud's Texans future after Patriots loss

Can Texans "hope" for Stroud to improve?

In an ideal world, as a quarterback enters Year 4, you either know he's your guy or you don't.

And the Texans know C.J. Is a solid quarterback, but given his regression over the past two seasons, paying him huge quarterback money isn't ideal.

They have two more years to see what Stroud can become before offering market-setting money after the 2027 season.

Is that enough time? It should be.

But the fact that we are having this conversation ahead of Year 4 isn't great for Texans fans.

Here's to a 2026 season where Stroud gets somewhere close to his rookie numbers.

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Editorial Team