Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio strongly denied any plans to trade quarterback C.J. Stroud while speaking to reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine on February 24. Addressing ongoing speculation, Caserio dismissed the talk as “moronic,” affirming that Stroud remains the team’s cornerstone at quarterback.
“We are not trading the guy. He’s our quarterback,”
Caserio said, confirming Stroud’s future with the Texans through at least 2026.
“He’s going to be playing quarterback for the Houston Texans in 2026.”
Background on Stroud’s Performance and Trade Speculation
Stroud’s name surfaced in trade discussions following a difficult postseason where he was responsible for seven turnovers across two playoff games. He notably threw four interceptions in the Texans’ 28-16 AFC Divisional Round loss to the New England Patriots. Despite his playoff struggles, Stroud, a former Ohio State standout, was chosen second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft and had an impressive rookie season.
During his first year, he threw for 4,108 yards, recorded 23 touchdowns against five interceptions, and helped the Texans improve dramatically from a 3-13-1 record to 9-6, securing a playoff spot. His performance also earned him the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, establishing high expectations for his NFL career.
Recent Decline in Stroud’s On-Field Output
Since his rookie year, Stroud’s production has declined, marked by career lows and increased turnovers. In the 2024 season, he threw a career-worst 12 interceptions, and for the 2025 campaign, he posted 3,041 passing yards and 19 touchdowns, both career lows. Stroud also missed three games during the 2025 season due to a concussion. At 24 years old, he is eligible for his first NFL contract extension, but Caserio did not disclose whether negotiations would take place this offseason.
Caserio’s Perspective on Stroud’s Development and Future Role
Despite the ups and downs, Caserio emphasized the value Stroud has brought to the Texans franchise.
“He’s been a good player and won a lot of football games,”
he said.
“Quarterback is the hardest position to play in sports. He had some ups and downs — that’s natural for a position, but overall, he’s had a pretty significant impact on what we are as a program. … He’s not going anywhere.”
The Importance of Stability at Quarterback for the Texans
By publicly shutting down trade rumors and reaffirming Stroud as the team’s quarterback through 2026, the Texans’ front office is signaling a commitment to continuity at the position. Given Stroud’s early career achievements and youth, stabilizing the quarterback role is vital for the organization’s rebuilding efforts and long-term success.
What lies ahead includes evaluating whether to offer Stroud a contract extension, which could solidify the team’s investment in its young signal-caller. His performance in the coming season may determine the trajectory of Houston’s offense and overall competitiveness in the AFC.
