Texans GM Sets Sept 13 Deadline for Stroud Talks

Houston Texans General Manager Nick Caserio has set a firm deadline for contract extension discussions with quarterback C.J. Stroud, stating that negotiations will cease before the team's regular-season opener on September 13. If an agreement is not reached by then, all contract talks will be postponed until the offseason. Caserio confirmed that discussions have been productive but emphasized the team's approach to avoid in-season negotiations. "We've had productive discussions," Caserio told reporters. "And the reality is, we'll either get it figured out before the season starts, and if we don't get it figured out before the season starts, then that's something we address in the offseason." Stroud, who was selected second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, remains under contract for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The Texans exercised his fifth-year option in April 2026, guaranteeing him $25.9 million for the 2027 season and providing the team with contractual control through that campaign before potentially utilizing the franchise tag.