Texans Exercise Fifth-Year Options for Stroud and Anderson

Securing the future of their top draft picks from 2021

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:14am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking down a football game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of deep blue, battle red, and steel gray, representing the Texans' strategic moves to secure their young stars.The Texans' strategic moves to secure their young stars Stroud and Anderson signal a new era of geometric, cubist-inspired energy in Houston.Houston Today

The Houston Texans have exercised the fifth-year contract options for quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson, ensuring their presence on the team through 2027. This strategic move solidifies the Texans' commitment to building a strong foundation around their talented young core.

Why it matters

Locking in Stroud and Anderson on long-term deals demonstrates the Texans' forward-thinking approach to team-building. Retaining their top draft picks from 2021 provides stability and continuity, positioning the organization for potential long-term success.

The details

The Texans have exercised the fifth-year options for Stroud and Anderson, guaranteeing them salaries of $25.904 million and $21.512 million respectively in 2027. This decision comes as no surprise, as both players have emerged as cornerstones of the Texans' offense and defense since being drafted in the top 3 in 2021.

  • The Texans exercised the fifth-year options for Stroud and Anderson in April 2026.

The players

C.J. Stroud

The Texans' starting quarterback, drafted 2nd overall in 2021, who has quickly become a key part of the team's offensive core.

Will Anderson

The Texans' starting edge rusher, drafted 3rd overall in 2021, who has been a dominant force on the defensive side of the ball.

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What they’re saying

“Locking in C.J. and Will for the long term is a huge step in building a championship contender in Houston. These are two of the brightest young stars in the league, and we're thrilled to have them as the foundation of our team for years to come.”

— Nick Caserio, General Manager, Houston Texans

What’s next

With both Stroud and Anderson now extension-eligible, the Texans will likely look to negotiate long-term deals to keep the two young stars in Houston for the foreseeable future.

The takeaway

The Texans' decision to exercise the fifth-year options for Stroud and Anderson showcases the organization's commitment to building a sustainable winner. By retaining their top draft picks, the Texans are positioning themselves as a team on the rise, with the potential to become a dominant force in the NFL for years to come.