C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans have a lot of work to do this offseason, and the third-year quarterback spoke candidly about doing just that during his exit interview on Monday. Stroud is entering a critical window.
The onus is really on the Texans to make the decision, but it may not be as clear-cut as it seems on the surface.
That is, if it comes at all this offseason.
C.J. Stroud Sends Strong Message About Future With Texans
GettyC.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans reacts after a 28-16 loss against the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional Playoffs
Stroud spoke about the Texans’ loss to the New England Patriot s in the AFC Divisional Playoffs, saying “it sucks” and that he takes “full responsibility for.” However, his final availability of the season was about much more than that, including Stroud’s contract.
He is extension-eligible this offseason.
“It’s not in my control. I did what I did on the field the last three years, and I thought I started off my career in a very great way. I’m 24, got a lot of ball left ahead of me. And I think I look at my career, and I’m doing a lot of things early in my career that a lot of people haven’t done in a long time. So, I’m grateful for that. And I know it’s not just me. It’s my teammates, it’s my coaches, it’s the organization,” Stroud told reporters on January 19.
“Whatever God has for me, I don’t think whatever open door he has, no man can close. Whatever closed door he has for me, no man could open. So, I’m a firm believer in that, and I’m going to just rock with that. But my job is done now in that light. I can only, just move forward, and–but I want to be here as long as I can. I love the city of Houston.”
Peacock’s Dan Patrick argued that Stroud’s historic (for all the wrong reasons) postseason performance “cost him millions” and argued against extending the QB.
However, the point may be moot. The Texans could let Stroud play out his rookie deal, including the fifth-year option, and still use the franchise tag up to three times. They could also sign him early and lock him into what figures to be a lower number .
ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime took an “educated guess” on how the situation would play out.
“I doubt there will be much contract talks throughout this offseason,” Bien-Aime posted on X on January 18 in a message that looms large for Stroud and Texans teammate Will Anderson Jr.
Bien-Aime’s prognostication was in response to DLLS’ Clarence Hill Jr. questioning whether Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans ’ support–which Stroud said he appreciated as part of Houston’s foundational belief–and whether it would hold up at the negotiating table.
C.J. Stroud Vows to Improve
GettyC.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans leaves the field after an injury against the Denver Broncos .
Stroud said that he was “crushed” and wanted to avoid getting “emotional” when noting how “hopeful” the Texans were to advance beyond the Divisional Round .
“For it to be on my plate, for me not to step up, it really hurts me,” Stroud said. “I know that I can do that. So, I just hope this city and this organization and my teammates–and I know my teammates will–but I hope everybody gives me a shot to do it again.”
Stroud noted “uncharacteristic things” from this season, citing his turnovers when pressed.
He had 8 interceptions and fumbled twice during the regular season. But he had 2 TDs, 5 INTs, and 5 fumbles (2 lost) in the playoffs. Stroud threw 12 picks and had 6 fumbles in 2024.
Stroud had 12 INTs in three years in college .
“I’m still growing this league. Still a player that has a lot to learn from, a lot to look forward to in my career. So, I’m excited to do that. But yeah, I’m just going to take my best foot forward, and move on, and learn from it.”
“I just add fuel to the fire. Makes the story a little sweeter.”
Stroud said he was “excited” to see what is next for him and asserted, “I know this ain’t the end of C.J. Stroud. This ain’t the end of my career.”
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