If you’re a Texans fan looking ahead, there’s one big question looming over everything: Is C.J. Stroud the long-term answer at quarterback? And if not-then what’s the plan?
Let’s be clear: Stroud’s not going anywhere right now. He’s still under a rookie deal, and the Texans have the fifth-year option in their back pocket.
That means the front office doesn’t have to make a franchise-altering decision just yet. But this is the NFL-we all know how quickly things can change.
If you’re not convinced he’s “the guy,” then it’s fair to ask: *What’s the alternative? *
Let’s walk through the realistic options-starting with the biggest name that might be available.
Kyler Murray: The High-Risk, High-Reward Swing
Stats: 67.1% completion rate, 6.86 adjusted yards per attempt, 4.1 TD%, 2.0 INT%, 92.2 passer rating, 32 rushing TDs
If the Texans were to explore a blockbuster move, Kyler Murray would be the headliner. This would likely mean a swap involving Stroud and some sort of additional compensation from Arizona. The Cardinals seem ready to move on from Murray, and while his contract is hefty, that also means he’s already locked in-no guessing games about extensions or fifth-year options.
Why it could work: Athletically, Murray is electric. Outside of Lamar Jackson, there might not be a more dynamic dual-threat quarterback in the league. He’s under contract, and if he fits into new offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s system, he could bring a layer of explosiveness that Stroud simply doesn’t offer.
Why it might not: Availability has been a major issue. Murray’s injury history is well-documented, and durability concerns haven’t gone away.
There’s also the question of fit-he thrived in a college-style spread offense in Arizona, and it’s unclear how well he’d adapt to a more traditional pro scheme. Not to mention, the financials are complicated, even if the Cardinals eat some of the cost.
Mac Jones: The Buy-Low, High-Upside Play
Stats: 66.5% completion rate, 6.36 adjusted yards per attempt, 3.6 TD%, 2.7 INT%, 86.9 passer rating
Jones quietly rebuilt his value in San Francisco, where he looked far more comfortable than he ever did in New England. Now, he’s heading into the final year of his rookie deal, and he’s projected to earn around $4 million next season. That’s a bargain for a starting quarterback in today’s NFL.
Why it could work: Jones might be a better schematic fit for Caley’s offense than Stroud. He’s accurate, decisive, and efficient when protected-traits that shined in the Shanahan system. If the Texans believe they can replicate that environment, Jones could be a plug-and-play option who doesn’t cost a fortune.
Why it might not: You’re still betting on upside. If Jones plays well, you’re back in the same spot you’re in with Stroud-do you pay him?
And like Stroud, he’s not a physical outlier. He won’t create much outside of structure, which puts pressure on the offensive line and scheme to be near-perfect.
Also, you’d need to consider what kind of draft capital goes out to get him-and what you’re getting back for Stroud.
Malik Willis: The Wild Card Free Agent
Stats: 67.7% completion rate, 8.43 adjusted yards per attempt, 3.9 TD%, 1.9 INT%, 98.9 passer rating, 4 rushing TDs
Willis hasn’t had a ton of playing time, but when he’s been on the field, he’s flashed. He’s a free agent, so the Texans wouldn’t need to give up any assets to get him-just money. And depending on how the market shakes out, he could be had on a short-term “prove it” deal or a longer-term contract with team-friendly structure.
Why it could work: The upside is real. Willis has the mobility to extend plays, and if he develops as a passer, he could be a nightmare for defenses. If he clicks, you’ve got a discount version of Lamar Jackson-and that’s a huge win.
Why it might not: The concerns about his accuracy and decision-making are still there. The tools are enticing, but he’s still an unfinished product. If you’re bringing him in, you’re likely adjusting the offense to fit his skill set-and that’s a big ask unless you’re fully committed to building around him.
Marcus Mariota: The Veteran Stopgap
Stats: 62.8% completion rate, 7.21 adjusted yards per attempt, 4.5 TD%, 2.6 INT%, 89.7 passer rating, 19 rushing TDs
Mariota has had something of a resurgence in Washington, running a system similar to what Kyler Murray operated in Arizona. He’s not a long-term answer, but if the Texans are looking for a bridge quarterback while they develop someone else or wait for the right draft pick, he could fit the bill.
Why it could work: He’s mobile, experienced, and wouldn’t cost much. Compared to Davis Mills or other low-tier backups, Mariota gives you a better floor and a bit more juice in the run game. For a team in transition, that’s not nothing.
Why it might not: The ceiling is limited. Mariota has been in the league long enough that we know what he is-a serviceable starter who needs the right system and support to succeed. He’s not going to elevate a team on his own, and he’s not the kind of player you build a long-term plan around.
So, What’s the Best Path Forward?
Among the realistic options, Mac Jones might offer the best combination of upside, fit, and cost. He’s still young, he’s shown he can thrive in a system similar to what Caley might install, and he wouldn’t break the bank.
Is it a gamble? Absolutely.
But so is sticking with Stroud if you’re not fully convinced he’s the guy.
The Texans don’t have to make a move right now-but they do need to have a plan. Whether it’s giving Stroud more time to prove himself, taking a swing on a player like Jones, or exploring the trade market for a more dynamic athlete like Murray or Willis, this decision will shape the direction of the franchise for years to come.
And in Houston, where the quarterback carousel has spun for far too long, getting this one right is everything.