C.J. Stroud Not Expected to Give Discount on Second Contract

TL;DR

C.J. Stroud is approaching his second NFL contract, and it is expected to be costly. The Houston Texans' willingness to meet his financial demands will be closely monitored.

Key points

C.J. Stroud is nearing his second NFL contract
His second contract is expected to be expensive
The Texans' willingness to pay will be closely watched

Houston TexansC.J. Stroud

C.J. Stroud Not Expected to Give Discount on Second Contract

How much is a quality quarterback worth in 2026? The Houston Texans are about to find out.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is nearing his second contract in the NFL. Rest assured, it will be expensive. What the Texans are willing, or able, to pay for Stroud will be fascinating to watch.

ESPN NFL analyst D.J. Bien-Aime shared what one NFC front office member had to say about Stroud and what he thinks Stroud is worth paying heading into his second contract. Here's what Bien-Aime shared.

"'Offer him something like top 8-12 [QB] money,' an NFC executive said. 'I'd try to give him a three-year extension at like $42-45 million per year now. Or plan to franchise him out like [Dallas Cowboys QB] Dak Prescott in 2020.'

The eighth-highest annual salary for a quarterback belongs to the Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts ($51 million) and the 12th belongs to the Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes ($45 million).

The NFC executive believes Stroud and his management team -- led by agent David Mulugheta of Athletes First -- would reject the 8-12 deal. The executive said he would be willing to increase the offer to strike a deal, and if that failed, just prepare to use the franchise tag if needed in 2028.

Texans owner Cal McNair would love to have his cornerstone pieces like Stroud and Anderson in Houston for the foreseeable future. But he won't meddle in the football discussion, he'll just sign the checks."

Q&A

What is C.J. Stroud's expected salary for his second contract?

C.J. Stroud's second contract is anticipated to be expensive, although specific figures have not been disclosed.

How does C.J. Stroud's contract situation affect the Houston Texans?

Stroud's contract negotiations will significantly impact the Texans' salary cap and future roster decisions.

What insights did NFL analysts provide about C.J. Stroud's worth?

NFL analyst D.J. Bien-Aime reported that an NFC front office member believes Stroud will command a high salary based on current quarterback market trends.