The Houston Texans currently project to have one of the NFL's highest payrolls in 2026. And that's before forthcoming contract extension talks with two of their franchise cornerstones, quarterback C.J. Stroud and defensive end Will Anderson Jr.
See the problem? Things are getting expensive for the Texans. The front office has done a phenomenal job of adding talent through the draft, but they're quickly becoming a victim of their own success.
Anderson's set to earn a market-setting payday this offseason, at one of the premium positions in football, too. Stroud's situation is a bit more complicated, though he could also cash in big-time.