Texans Exercise Fifth-Year Options for Stroud, Anderson

Houston secures top draft picks through 2027 as they evaluate long-term futures.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:55pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football game or match, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a high-stakes NFL matchup, reflecting the Texans' strategic moves to secure their young stars for the long term.Houston Today

The Houston Texans have exercised the fifth-year contract options for quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., keeping both players under team control through the 2027 season. Stroud's 2027 salary is set at $25.904 million, while Anderson's is $21.512 million.

Why it matters

This move gives the Texans more time to evaluate Stroud's development after a mixed start to his NFL career, while solidifying Anderson's status as a cornerstone defensive player. The team now has two more years to determine if Stroud can return to his rookie-year form or if they need to explore other quarterback options.

The details

Stroud was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, while Anderson was selected third overall after the Texans traded up. Anderson has quickly emerged as one of the league's premier pass rushers, making the Pro Bowl twice and earning first-team All-Pro honors. Stroud had a strong rookie season but saw his production dip over the next two years due to injuries and inconsistent play.

  • The Texans exercised the fifth-year options on April 9, 2026.
  • Stroud's 2027 salary is set at $25.904 million.
  • Anderson's 2027 salary is set at $21.512 million.

The players

C.J. Stroud

The Texans' starting quarterback, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud had a strong rookie season but has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play over the past two years.

Will Anderson Jr.

The Texans' star edge rusher, who was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Anderson has quickly developed into one of the league's premier defensive players, making the Pro Bowl twice and earning first-team All-Pro honors.

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What they’re saying

“The Texans have exercised the 2027 fifth-year options on the contracts of QB CJ Stroud and All Pro DE Will Anderson, per source. Stroud is now due $25.904M in 2027, while Anderson is due $21.512M. Both players are also extension eligible.”

— Field Yates, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Texans will now focus on evaluating Stroud's performance in the 2026 season to determine if he is their long-term answer at quarterback. Meanwhile, the team is expected to prioritize signing Anderson to a lucrative contract extension that could reset the market for elite defensive players.

The takeaway

This move by the Texans highlights the importance of developing young talent, especially at key positions like quarterback and pass rusher. While Stroud's future remains uncertain, Anderson has firmly established himself as a cornerstone player, and the team is committed to keeping both players in Houston for the foreseeable future.