It’s now been three straight years that the Houston Texans have exited in the divisional round of the AFC Playoffs. To be clear, there are a lot of fans and teams, looking at you, New York Jets, that would gladly trade places with the Texans. In fact, it’s not even close.
But at the same time, how long will the Texans settle for the same result? And whose fault is it? How much of the blame should be placed on CJ Stroud?
Jan 18, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga (95) sacks Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) in the fourth quarter in an AFC Divisional Round game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
After throwing four interceptions in Houston’s season-ending loss, it’s clear that Stroud isn’t innocent. And the fact that it’s now happened for three straight years means it’s becoming a true trend and not a coincidence.
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As they head into the offseason, the Texans need to take a long, hard look at their team as they prepare for the 2026 season. It’s only natural for Houston to truly dig into Stroud.
Let’s start with the good. Stroud got Houston to the divisional round in the postseason for three straight years. There’s real value in that, and it shouldn’t be overlooked.
When we get to the postseason, the competition gets more difficult, and that’s obviously been an issue for Stroud. This season, the weather and a strong New England Patriots defense led to his demise.
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) drops to throw during the first half against the Denver Broncos at NRG Stadium. Credit: Sean Thomas-Imagn Images
In six career postseason games, Stroud has yet to distinguish himself. He has a 3-3 record but has passed for just 1,438 yards and six touchdowns. That has also come with six interceptions. To be fair, four did come in one game, but Stroud hasn’t exactly been a difference maker for the Texans.
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While Stroud might not be the best quarterback, he’s gotten the Texans to the second round of the playoffs in each of the last three years. That has to count for something. If the Texans were to move on from Stroud, where would they go?
Quite simply, he’s better than any available option. If this continues, then maybe the Texans need to think about a change, but at this point, I think we are being premature.
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