CJ Stroud Trade Rumors: A Surprising Twist in Houston’s Offseason
As the NFL offseason heats up, the rumor mill is spinning faster than ever-and this time, it’s C.J. Stroud’s name that’s unexpectedly in the mix.
Just two years removed from being the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans’ young quarterback is now at the center of trade speculation. And yes, it’s as surprising as it sounds.
Stroud came into the league with sky-high expectations after a standout career at Ohio State, where he lit up the Big Ten under Ryan Day’s offense. His rookie year in Houston?
Nothing short of electric. He threw for over 4,100 yards and 23 touchdowns, injecting life into a Texans franchise that had been searching for stability under center.
Fans in Houston had every reason to believe they’d found their guy.
But fast forward to now, and the tone has shifted.
This past season, Stroud’s numbers dipped. In 14 games, he posted 3,041 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions.
Not terrible by any stretch, but not quite the leap forward many were hoping for in Year 2. Then came the playoff game against the Patriots-an outing that’s still fresh in the minds of Texans fans.
Four interceptions in a postseason loss to the eventual AFC champions was a tough pill to swallow, and it’s the kind of performance that tends to linger in conversations around a franchise quarterback.
Now, enter Todd McShay, who recently floated Stroud’s name as a potential trade candidate this offseason. That comment alone has stirred up a flurry of speculation.
It’s not often you hear a team even considering moving on from a quarterback they drafted second overall just three seasons ago. But here we are.
To be clear, there’s no official indication that Houston is actively shopping Stroud. But in a league where quarterback movement has become more common-and more aggressive-than ever, even the suggestion of a possible trade is enough to raise eyebrows. Especially when it involves a player with Stroud’s pedigree and potential.
Let’s be honest: Stroud has shown flashes of brilliance. His arm talent, poise in the pocket, and leadership qualities were on full display during his rookie campaign.
And while 2025 didn’t end the way he-or the Texans-wanted, there’s still a lot to like about his game. The question is whether Houston’s front office sees enough to stay committed, or if they’re willing to entertain offers and potentially hit the reset button again at quarterback.
For Ohio State fans, this is a twist they didn’t see coming. Stroud was a star in Columbus, even if he never managed to get past Michigan or capture a national title. That hasn’t diminished the support he still receives from Buckeye Nation, who continue to back him as he navigates the highs and lows of the NFL.
If a trade does happen, it would be one of the more shocking moves of the offseason-and one that would send ripple effects across the league. Stroud’s talent is undeniable, and if Houston lets him go, there will be no shortage of teams willing to take a chance on a quarterback with his upside.
For now, we wait. But one thing’s clear: the Texans’ offseason just got a whole lot more interesting.