C.J. Stroud faced intense scrutiny after a difficult Divisional Round game against the New England Patriots, where he threw four interceptions, following two seasons of struggles after an outstanding rookie year. Despite the criticism from outside, Houston’s coaching staff and teammates, including Dalton Schultz, have stood firmly behind the quarterback.
Teammates Respond to Stroud’s Challenging Playoff Performance
After Stroud’s difficult game, questions about his future with the Houston Texans have begun to circulate, fueled by his inconsistency and the team’s early postseason exit. However, inside the organization, support remains strong. On the Ross Tucker Football Podcast, Dalton Schultz addressed the criticism directly, emphasizing that everyone has rough games and that the quarterback position often bears disproportionate blame.
“Everybody has a bad game. Everybody has a rough (day) at the office,”
Schultz said when discussing Stroud’s playoff performance.
“To be honest, not all that was on him. Everyone is going to pin it on him, because he’s the quarterback — and he understands that, we understand that. But I think what’s important is realizing, separate yourself from that as who you are. One game doesn’t define you, good or bad. It’s all going to fall on you, regardless, so own it, bro, like the result is bad. We lost. Dude, I got hurt in the first quarter, it sucks. So I look at myself, and I’m like, ‘Alright, that’s never happened…do I need to do more next time? What can I change?’”
“Everybody’s got to turn themselves. It’s not all on C.J. Do you think he throws some of those picks if he didn’t have a guy in his lap? Everything is so entangled in football that it’s hard to put anything on one guy ever.”
Challenges and Context Surrounding Stroud’s Future in Houston
The quarterback position often attracts praise when things go well and criticism when outcomes are poor, a reality Stroud and many others have accepted. Rumors about his potential departure arise partly because of the limited quarterback options available in free agency and a shallow draft class this offseason. Despite this chatter, Houston’s decision-makers appear in no hurry to part ways with the 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Stroud became eligible for a contract extension this offseason, but recent struggles may delay any long-term negotiations. The Texans have the flexibility to wait before committing to a significant deal, which could surpass $200 million, thanks to the team holding the fifth-year option for 2027 and potential franchise tags. This setup allows Houston to maintain control over Stroud for several years without a lengthy contract.
The Financial and Strategic Considerations for Houston
The decision for Houston revolves around timing the investment in Stroud’s future. The team must weigh whether to secure a deal early, amid rising quarterback salaries, or delay and risk losing leverage. Examples from other franchises add caution: the Miami Dolphins regretted a costly commitment to Tua Tagovailoa, while the Dallas Cowboys faced challenges navigating franchise tags with Dak Prescott before ultimately signing him to a record $60 million contract.
For Houston, managing this delicate balance will be crucial in shaping their quarterback strategy going forward, especially given the high stakes and market pressures surrounding elite NFL passers.
“Not ALL that was on him…”
“Do you think he throws some of those picks if he didn't have a guy in his lap?… Everything is so entangled in football that it's hard to put anything on one guy ever…”
Texans TE Dalton Schultz (@BinghamBaller9) discusses QB CJ Stroud’s postseason… pic.twitter.com/HT6bQOssGK
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) February 18, 2026
