Texans Exercise Fifth-Year Options on Stroud, Anderson

The Houston Texans have exercised the fifth-year options on the contracts of quarterback C.J. Stroud and defensive end Will Anderson Jr., securing the two young stars through the 2027 season. The decision, reported Wednesday by ESPN's Field Yates, ensures Stroud will earn $25.904 million in 2027, while Anderson is set for $21.512 million, both fully guaranteed amounts.

Stroud and Anderson were selected with the second and third overall picks, respectively, in the 2023 NFL Draft, forming the foundation of the Texans' rapid rebuild under head coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio. The moves provide the franchise with cost-controlled stability for its core players as it navigates upcoming contract negotiations and roster development.

Stroud burst onto the scene as the 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year, completing 63.9 percent of his passes for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns and just five interceptions. That performance propelled Houston to the playoffs and earned him a Pro Bowl selection. However, his production has declined in subsequent seasons. In 2024, he threw for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His 2025 campaign was limited to 14 games due to a...