Stroud's Four Interceptions Derail Texans in Playoff Loss to Patriots
Stroud's four interceptions ended the Texans' playoff run against New England.
Event / Sports
Will Anderson Jr. Contract Extension
Houston Texans All-Pro edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. agreed to a three-year, $150 million contract extension with $134 million guaranteed, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal includes a no-trade clause and keeps Anderson under contract through 2030.
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2026-08-18 to 2026-11-15 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 18 Apr, 00:36 UTC
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What happened
Will Anderson Jr. drafted third overall by Houston Texans in 2023
Will Anderson Jr. was selected third overall in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. The Texans traded up with the Arizona Cardinals to acquire the pick, paying a significant price that included the 12th overall pick, 33rd overall pick, a 2024 first-round pick, and a 2024 third-round pick. Anderson has accumulated 30.0 career sacks, 46 tackles for loss, and 64 quarterback hits through 46 career appearances.
Houston Texans defeat Pittsburgh Steelers in playoff game
The Houston Texans defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers in a playoff game, with the defense recording four sacks and forcing two turnovers for touchdowns. Will Anderson Jr. recorded a strip sack of quarterback Aaron Rodgers that was recovered for a defensive touchdown.
Houston Texans make kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn highest paid at position
Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn signed a two-year, $13 million contract extension with the Houston Texans, becoming the highest-paid kicker at his position.
Houston Texans extend tight end Dalton Schultz
The Houston Texans extended tight end Dalton Schultz on a one-year contract extension worth $12.6 million, as part of a series of team extensions announced during the 2026 offseason.
Houston Texans defense ranks second in scoring and total yards allowed in 2025
The Houston Texans defense ranked second in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 17.3 points per game, and second in total yards allowed, permitting 279 yards per game in the 2025 season. The defense forced opposing Pro Bowl quarterbacks into multiple turnovers across matchups.
C.J. Stroud throws four interceptions in playoff loss to New England Patriots
Quarterback C.J. Stroud threw a career-worst four interceptions in a 28-16 AFC Divisional Round playoff loss to the New England Patriots in the 2025 season. Stroud also missed three games due to injury in 2025.
Houston Texans post 32-19 regular season record since 2023 draft
Since drafting C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr. in 2023, the Houston Texans have compiled a 32-19 regular season record with three playoff wins and two AFC South division titles.
Houston Texans exercise C.J. Stroud's fifth-year option
The Houston Texans exercised the fifth-year option on quarterback C.J. Stroud's rookie contract on April 8, 2026, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. Stroud is eligible for a contract extension this year.
Houston Texans exercise fifth-year option for Will Anderson Jr.
The Houston Texans exercised the fifth-year option on Will Anderson Jr.'s rookie deal on April 8, 2026, worth $21.5 million. This action preceded the announcement of his major contract extension and served as a precursor to negotiations.
Will Anderson Jr. named first-team All-Pro in 2025 season
Will Anderson Jr. was selected as a first-team All-Pro in 2025 after recording 12.0 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, and 23 quarterback hits in 17 games. He finished second in AP Defensive Player of the Year voting. Anderson is a two-time Pro Bowler and the 2023 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Will Anderson Jr. signs three-year, $150 million extension with Houston Texans
Houston Texans All-Pro edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $150 million with $134 million guaranteed. The deal makes Anderson the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history with an annual salary of $50 million and includes a no-trade clause. The extension keeps him under contract through 2030.
Houston Texans extend Danielle Hunter on one-year, $40 million deal
The Houston Texans extended All-Pro defensive end Danielle Hunter on a one-year contract extension worth $40 million, part of a broader series of team extensions announced alongside Will Anderson Jr.'s deal.
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2 alternative perspectives
Texans Defense Powers Playoff Run Behind Elite Stopping Power
Texans' elite defense ranks second in yards and points allowed, driving playoff success.
Texans Double Down on Roster with Strategic Extension Investments
Texans invest in Hunter, Schultz, Fairbairn, and secure Stroud alongside Anderson extension.
Anderson Signs $150M Extension with Texans After All-Pro Season
Anderson extends with Texans for $150M after earning All-Pro honors.