What happened: General manager Nick Caserio said discussions with the quarterback have been productive. The sides have until the season opener to reach an agreement before negotiations pause.
Why it matters: The deadline puts the extension question on a short timeline as Houston prepares for 2026. Stroud remains under contract through 2027 after the team exercised his fifth-year option.
By the numbers: Stroud has a 28-18 record as Houston's starter and has led the club to the playoffs in each of his three seasons.
What to watch: Watch whether talks produce an agreement before Week 1. If not, the contract issue shifts to the next offseason.