The Texans Just Locked in Their Future: Stroud and Anderson Staying Put Through 2027
Houston made a major move on Wednesday that tells you everything you need to know about where the Texans see their franchise heading. They picked up the fifth-year options for quarterback C.J. Stroud and All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr., locking in both stars through the 2027 season and signaling they're all in on this core.
The Money and the Commitment
Here is what the Texans are putting on the table: Stroud will make $25.9 million in 2027 with fully guaranteed money. Anderson gets $21.5 million in 2027, also fully guaranteed. These aren't small bets. This is the front office saying we trust these guys to be our foundation.
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👉 Claim Your Free $10 at KalshiThe timing matters too. Both Stroud and Anderson just finished their third NFL seasons in 2025, which means they are now eligible for contract extensions this offseason. Picking up the fifth-year options is basically a safety net while the team works on long-term deals with both players.
What They Have Already Done
Look at the production that earned these guarantees. Anderson had an absolute 2025 season: 12 sacks (tied for eighth in the league), 20 tackles for loss (tied for fourth), and he anchored a defense that ranked second in both scoring and total yardage allowed. He also earned his first All-Pro selection in 2025, a huge milestone for a third-year player.
Stroud has already made a name for himself since arriving in Houston. Both he and Anderson became Pro Bowlers in their time with the Texans, showing they are operating at an elite level.
According to league sources, Anderson's contract extension takes priority over Stroud's, which makes sense given his defensive dominance and that first All-Pro honor.
What is Next
This move is just the opening act. The Texans will now turn their attention to extensions for both players. When a team exercises fifth-year options like this, it usually means extension talks are coming. Houston is betting big on Stroud and Anderson being the cornerstones of a competitive team for years to come.
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