C.J. Stroud is making waves in the NFL as one of the top quarterbacks for the Houston Texans. Drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in 2023, he quickly became a Pro Bowler, an MVP candidate, and the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. While his performance in Year 2 hasn’t quite matched the stellar numbers from his rookie season, Stroud continues to be a winning leader for a Texans team boasting a 6-2 record.
The Standout of the 2023 QB Class
Stroud has established himself as a standout in the 2023 quarterback class. While fellow top-five picks Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson have already faced challenges—being benched—and second-rounder Will Levis is dealing with a shoulder injury, Stroud’s consistent performance shines through. He sits comfortably in the range between solid and spectacular, making him the clear frontrunner among his peers.
A Comparison with Trevor Lawrence
This situation mirrors what happened with Trevor Lawrence, the No. 1 overall pick in 2021. In that draft class, the other first-round quarterbacks—Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, Justin Fields, and Mac Jones—have all struggled with their original teams and are now on different rosters. Lawrence, however, secured a lucrative deal worth $275 million over five years, with $200 million guaranteed. His average annual value (AAV) of $55 million ties him for second in the league with Joe Burrow and Jordan Love, just behind Dak Prescott, who is currently the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL.
C.J. Stroud’s Current Contract
Stroud’s current contract reflects his status as a top draft pick. He is on a four-year, all-guaranteed deal worth $36.279 million, which translates to an AAV of just over $9 million per season. His cap hit stands at $8.245 million, but if he plays out the final year of his contract in 2026 without an extension, it will escalate to $11.543 million. Given his performance, the Texans are likely to activate the fifth-year option for 2027, and all indications suggest they would be eager to break the bank for him if he maintains his health and high level of play.
Future Projections: What’s Next for Stroud?
Looking ahead, Stroud is poised for a significant payday. With Brock Purdy expected to be the next quarterback up for a mega contract in 2025, the stakes are high. After Prescott set the bar with his $60 million AAV, Purdy is on track to earn over $300 million for five years, aiming for an AAV that surpasses Prescott’s. If Purdy achieves an AAV of $61-$62 million, Stroud could be in a position to claim the title of the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, potentially earning $65 million per season.
The Path to a Lucrative Extension
Stroud’s trajectory suggests he will follow in Prescott’s footsteps, setting himself up for a second lucrative extension sooner rather than later. A four-year deal worth $260 million is within reach, but it’s more conventional for the Texans to offer a five-year deal totaling $325 million. The guaranteed money will also play a crucial role in his next contract. Based on recent trends, Stroud could see 70-80 percent of his deal guaranteed, which could max out around $260 million—approximately $20 million more than Prescott’s guarantee.
Temporary Title of Highest-Paid QB
While Stroud may enjoy the mantle of “highest-paid” quarterback for a brief period, this title is likely to be contested soon. The 2024 draft features top prospects Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels, both of whom are expected to command hefty contracts. Nevertheless, Stroud’s immediate impact as the Texans’ franchise quarterback solidifies his place in the league.
The Texans’ Bright Future with Stroud
As we look towards the future, it’s clear that C.J. Stroud is not just a flash in the pan. He is a cornerstone for the Texans, embodying the hope and promise of a franchise on the rise. With his impressive performance and leadership, fans can be optimistic about what lies ahead. Will he continue to elevate his game and lead the Texans to new heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: Stroud is a name to watch in the NFL for years to come.
In this exciting era of Texans football, C.J. Stroud is not just participating; he’s making a statement. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, the NFL world will be watching closely, eager to see how this young quarterback’s journey unfolds. With every game, every throw, and every victory, Stroud is carving out his legacy in the league.
