What happened: C.J. Stroud is reportedly prepared to enter the 2026 season without a new extension despite Houston offering roughly $50 million annually. The Texans could pause negotiations until after Week 1.

Why it matters: Stroud has won more than 60% of his regular-season games, which supports a major commitment. But a reported $50 million annual offer already places him among the NFL's highest-paid quarterback tier, and he has more to prove before demanding a higher number.