As C.J. Stroud prepares for his pivotal third season with the Houston Texans, his future contract extension becomes a pressing topic. Following a record-breaking rookie year and a less remarkable sophomore season, the Texans are evaluating Stroud’s potential as he approaches extension eligibility in 2026. This key period will determine how the team shapes its plans around their promising quarterback.
Case Keenum Highlights Stroud’s Exceptional Talent and Impact
Case Keenum, a former Houston Texans quarterback now with the Chicago Bears, publicly applauded Stroud’s unique skill set and early career accomplishments at his recent press conference. Despite now being part of another team, Keenum emphasized Stroud’s remarkable rookie season and the widespread impact it had.
He did stuff as a rookie, I don’t know if I’ve ever seen any quarterback do. And I think, honestly, probably should have been more in contention for the MVP that year. If he wasn’t a rookie, and it hadn’t taken people by surprise, I think he would have been more in the discussion for MVP, not just Offensive Rookie of the Year. That’s how special I think that young man is.
—Case Keenum, Former Texans Quarterback
Supporting these remarks, ESPN analyst DJ Ben-Aime documented Stroud’s historic achievements in the 2023 season, noting he became only the fifth rookie ever to surpass 4,000 passing yards and the first Ohio State alumnus to be selected for the Pro Bowl. Stroud’s collaboration with fellow rookie receiver Tank Dell proved productive, ranking eighth in total passing yards among first-year quarterback and wide receiver duos.
Stroud’s postseason performance further cemented his rising status, tying for the third-highest passer rating in playoff history at 157.2 and becoming the youngest quarterback to win a playoff game. Additionally, he was the first top-two pick drafted since 1967 to secure a playoff victory as a rookie.
Keenum Reflects on His Unique Experience with the Texans Organization
Case Keenum’s connection to Houston runs deep, having grown up in Abilene, Texas, and spent his early NFL years with the Texans. After bouncing between six teams over seven seasons, he returned to Houston in 2023 as the backup to Stroud. Despite limited starting opportunities—just three regular-season starts in his career—Keenum described his time with the Texans as especially meaningful.
Learned a lot. I learned that it’s really fun to lead from behind. Not necessarily be the one out in front, but helping support the guy who’s leading in front,
Keenum said.
[It is] among a lot of other things, but that was pretty special to do.
—Case Keenum, Former Texans Quarterback
Currently with the Chicago Bears, Keenum fills a similar role backing up Caleb Williams, the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. This parallel highlights Keenum’s ongoing willingness to contribute as a mentor and experienced player. He has also expressed interest in pursuing coaching after his playing career concludes.
Looking Ahead: C.J. Stroud’s Contract Extension and Future with the Texans
Stroud’s 2024 season registered 3,727 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a completion rate of 63.2%, marking a dip from his explosive rookie numbers but still showing promising development. His performances have placed him firmly on the Texans’ radar for contract negotiations as they prepare for the extension window opening after the 2025 season.
Sports analyst Tyler Sullivan from CBS Sports recently identified Stroud as the next Houston Texans player poised for a significant contract extension, following deals made by several teammates. Sullivan remarked on Stroud’s potential to reset market expectations for quarterback salaries with his continued progression.
Stroud will be eligible for an extension after the 2025 season and could reset the market,
Sullivan wrote.
He’s set to be the latest quarterback to cash in. Stroud has led Houston to back-to-back AFC South titles and two playoff wins during his tenure.
—Tyler Sullivan, CBS Sports Analyst
With the young quarterback showing flashes of elite talent, the Texans’ decision on Stroud’s contract will weigh heavily on their long-term strategy. His success to date, combined with glowing endorsements from veterans like Keenum, suggests Houston is poised to invest in him as their franchise cornerstone. The coming seasons will reveal how Stroud continues to evolve and whether he meets the lofty expectations that accompany his upcoming contract negotiations.