Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud, the top two picks from the 2023 NFL Draft, are both still playing under their rookie deals halfway through their fourth professional seasons. While several other first-rounders from that class have locked in their second contracts, these two quarterbacks are still waiting.
The Stroud Standoff: $50 Million and Still No Deal
Let’s be real, Stroud’s situation is wild. His third season was reportedly subpar, which complicated negotiations for a new deal. So, the Texans made the call to go into his fourth season without a new contract in place. An ESPN article from Tuesday laid out the key facts: the Texans actually offered Stroud a new-money contract valued at over $50 million. The kicker? Stroud wasn’t even asking to be the highest-paid quarterback in the league, a title currently held by Patrick Mahomes at $63.093 million.
Even with the Texans slumping to a 2-5 record in 2026, Stroud’s individual play has gotten significantly better. So, what now? This improved performance makes a new deal, one closer to the top of the market, super likely once this season wraps up. Of course, it’s theoretically possible they could work something out sooner.
Injury Risk and the Looming Future
For any player, especially a quarterback, there’s always a massive urgency to shift that injury risk from their shoulders to the team’s balance sheet. You never know when one hit can change everything. Young is in a similar spot, also playing out his fourth season on that initial rookie contract.
With Stroud’s play clearly on the upswing, despite his team’s struggles, the pressure is on. Will the Texans finally ante up to keep their signal-caller around for the long haul? It feels like we’re watching a ticking clock until these two young quarterbacks secure their financial futures and get the long-term deals they’ve been working for.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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