Texans Lock in Stroud and Anderson for 2027, and Both Deals Come With a Message

The Houston Texans aren't messing around with their future. On Wednesday, the team exercised the fifth-year options for quarterback C.J. Stroud and All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr., according to ESPN's Field Yates. Translation: these two are core pieces, and the Texans are making sure they stick around.

The Money and the Guarantee

Here's what it looks like on paper. Stroud will make $25.9 million in 2027, while Anderson will pocket $21.5 million that same year. Both salaries are fully guaranteed, which is the kind of language that tells you Houston is all in on these guys. This move also opens the door for potential contract extensions down the road for both players, since they've now completed their third NFL seasons and are eligible to talk long-term deals.

Anderson's Defense Is Built Different

Anderson's contract takes priority over Stroud's, and when you watch what he did in 2025, you understand why. The third-year defensive end racked up 12 sacks (tied for eighth in the league), 20 tackles for loss (tied for fourth), and anchored a defense that ranked No. 2 in both scoring and total yards allowed. He also locked down his first All-Pro selection in 2025. Anderson isn't just a pass rusher, he's a complete force that makes everything around him better.

Pro Bowlers Getting Paid Like It

Both Stroud and Anderson have become Pro Bowlers since landing in Houston, and the Texans are essentially saying they want them wearing the same jersey for years to come. This is the kind of move contenders make when they've found their guys and want to build around them for the long haul. The extension talks will come next, but locking in these fifth-year options first is smart chess.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.