If you’re a Texans fan, there’s one question that should be front and center this offseason: If C.J. Stroud isn’t the long-term answer at quarterback, then who is?
It’s a fair question-and one that deserves a deep dive. Stroud has shown flashes of promise, but we’re now at the point where the Texans have to start thinking about the future.
Not necessarily making a move today, but planning for tomorrow. The team holds the fifth-year option, which gives them some flexibility.
They don’t need to rush into a massive extension. They can take another year to evaluate.
But here’s the thing: if you’re not convinced he’s the guy after three seasons, there’s a school of thought that says he probably never will be. That’s not a definitive judgment, but it’s a reality NFL front offices wrestle with all the time. So if Houston were to explore other quarterback options-whether through a trade, free agency, or the draft-what would that look like?
Let’s break it down.
The Big Fish: Kyler Murray
Stats Snapshot
- 67.1% completion rate
- 6.86 adjusted yards per attempt
- 4.1% TD rate, 2.0% INT rate
- 92.2 passer rating
- 32 rushing touchdowns
If the Texans were to swing big, Kyler Murray would be the headline name. A potential Stroud-for-Murray swap would be the centerpiece of any deal, and given Murray’s contract, it’s likely the Cardinals would need to sweeten the pot with additional draft capital.
Why It Makes Sense
Murray’s raw talent isn’t in question.
He’s one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the league-arguably second only to Lamar Jackson in terms of pure mobility and playmaking ability. He’s under contract, which means you’d be getting a known commodity locked in for the near future.
In the right system, Murray can be electric. If Nick Caley’s offense can accommodate his strengths, the upside is massive.
Why It’s Risky
Durability is the big red flag.
Murray’s missed significant time, and the Cardinals appear to have run out of patience. There are also lingering concerns about his size and whether his game translates to a more traditional NFL system.
He thrived in a spread-heavy, college-style offense. That’s not what Caley runs.
So while the talent is there, the fit-and the health-are major question marks.
Trade Market: Mac Jones
Stats Snapshot
- 66.5% completion rate
- 6.36 adjusted yards per attempt
- 3.6% TD rate, 2.7% INT rate
- 86.9 passer rating
Mac Jones has quietly rebuilt his value as a backup in San Francisco, where the Shanahan system helped smooth out some of the rough edges we saw in New England. He’s set to make around $4 million in 2026, making him a low-cost, high-upside option for a team like Houston.
Why It Makes Sense
Jones looked far more comfortable in a system that relies on timing, rhythm, and efficiency-traits that align well with what Caley is likely to implement.
His interception rate dropped, and he showed he can operate within a structured offense. If the Texans believe Jones can replicate that success in Houston, he could be a legitimate alternative to Stroud without requiring a long-term commitment.
Why It’s Risky
He’s entering the final year of his rookie deal, so you’re looking at a one-year rental unless you extend him.
And if he plays well, you’re right back in the same spot you’re in with Stroud-trying to decide whether to hand out a big extension. Physically, Jones doesn’t bring much more to the table than Stroud, so the margin for error would remain thin.
You’d need to invest in protection and scheme to maximize him.
Free Agent Options
Malik Willis
Stats Snapshot
- 67.7% completion rate
- 8.43 adjusted yards per attempt
- 3.9% TD rate, 1.9% INT rate
- 98.9 passer rating
- 4 rushing touchdowns
Willis is a bit of a wild card. He hasn’t played a ton, but the flashes have been intriguing. He’s the kind of dual-threat quarterback who could completely change the dynamic of your offense if he hits.
Why It Makes Sense
As a free agent, you get flexibility.
You could structure a short-term “prove it” deal or lock him in on a team-friendly contract if you believe in his upside. His athleticism would add a layer to the offense that Houston hasn’t had in years.
If he develops into a Lamar-lite, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Why It’s Risky
Accuracy and consistency remain big concerns.
The numbers suggest progress, but scouts still question whether he can make the full range of NFL throws. If the Texans went this route, they’d likely need to tailor the offense around his strengths, which could mean a significant shift in philosophy.
Marcus Mariota
Stats Snapshot
- 62.8% completion rate
- 7.21 adjusted yards per attempt
- 4.5% TD rate, 2.6% INT rate
- 89.7 passer rating
- 19 rushing touchdowns
Mariota has quietly found some success in Washington, operating in a system similar to what Murray ran in Arizona. He’s not a long-term answer, but he could be a bridge option if the Texans want to keep their options open.
Why It Makes Sense
He’s experienced, mobile, and would come at a lower cost than someone like Willis.
If the Texans need a stopgap while they evaluate younger talent or wait for the right draft pick, Mariota could be a serviceable option. His mobility gives you a bit more versatility than a traditional pocket passer.
Why It’s Risky
He’s not a long-term solution.
Mariota has been labeled a “bust” in some circles, and while he’s shown flashes, he’s unlikely to elevate a team on his own. If you’re going this route, you’re essentially punting on 2026 and hoping for a better opportunity down the line.
So, What’s the Play?
If the Texans decide to move on from Stroud-or even just want to hedge their bets-Mac Jones might be the most reasonable gamble. He’s shown he can succeed in a system similar to what Caley runs, and the cost (both financially and in terms of draft capital) would likely be manageable. He wouldn’t require a full offensive overhaul, and you’d get a season to evaluate whether he can be more than just a bridge.
Kyler Murray offers the highest ceiling, but also the most risk. Willis is the lottery ticket.
Mariota is the placeholder. Jones?
He’s the pragmatic option.
Of course, all of this depends on how the Texans view Stroud internally. If they still believe in his upside, they have time.
But if doubts are starting to creep in, the front office needs to be ready-with a plan, not just a hope. Because in today’s NFL, if you don’t have your quarterback, you don’t have a shot.