11 Observations From Day One of Houston Texans Training Camp
From Stroud's deal to a big moment from a rookie as the 2026 season gets underway
The Houston Texans held their first training camp practice of 2026 on Wednesday.
Here are 11 observations from the workout.
C.J. Stroud’s contract was a big talking point on day one. General manager Nick Caserio revealed the team had discussions with Stroud’s representation about a contract throughout the offseason. Stroud said that wasn’t his concern. He was worried about taking care of the football and letting his agent handle negotiations. When I asked Stroud if there was a point when he would want to stop discussing the contract this preseason, he said no and that his agent would handle it. DeMeco Ryans said the contracts usually take care of themselves if you are successful enough on the football field. Neither the Texans nor Stroud should be hasty about entering into a new agreement. Stroud would leave money on the table negotiating now, or the team would massively overpay. While the two sides have at least had a conversation about it, I would expect the 2026 season to begin without a new deal for the quarterback.
Stroud looked accurate and precise while throwing. He made quick decisions, putting the ball on his wide receivers. Jayden Higgins, who Stroud has had trouble connecting with in offseason workouts, dropped a pass. The two connected on an easy play when Higgins left linebacker Henry To’oTo’o in the dust at the line of scrimmage. Stroud got into trouble when he tried to do too much. He rolled out after the snap and had pressure in his face. He tossed the ball up into traffic where cornerback Kamari Lassiter came down with an interception. It was a play reminiscent of the bad moments against the New England Patriots from last year’s playoffs. It was one of the only mistakes of the day from Stroud. It was a solid day for him.
