How much money does CJ Stroud make and when does his contract with the Texans end?

The former Ohio State quarterback, CJ Stroud, signed his groundbreaking contract in the NFL last season. Valued at an impressive $36.3 million, the contract included an unprecedented bonus of $23.38 million. By the end of the contract in 2026, Stroud will have earned more than $36 million, with an average annual salary exceeding $9 million. What sets this contract apart from typical rookie contracts is that the entire bonus was paid immediately instead of being spread out over time. This could set a new precedent for future negotiations.

While signing bonuses are standard in professional sports, this move towards more immediate compensation for student-athletes is a potential harbinger of change. Despite its historic significance, Stroud’s contract announcement did not make the top 10 stories on ESPN’s NFL section. This could be due to similar contracts with Bryce Young.

Questions remained regarding Stroud’s role as the starting quarterback and the timing of any official announcement. However, as the season progressed, Stroud proved himself with his high level of play, justifying his monster contract.

Now, in his second season as the Houston Texans’ first quarterback, all eyes will be on Stroud as he pursues financial success and athletic performance. Fans hope for a Super Bowl title after the first-seeded Baltimore Ravens stopped the team in the Divisional round. Stroud’s contract symbolizes the changing landscape of collegiate athletics, characterized by shifting norms and unprecedented opportunities.