C.J. Stroud's position with the Houston Texans remains a topic of speculation, despite general manager Nick Caserio's commitment to keeping him. With Stroud yet to secure a long-term contract and the 2026 season looming, discussions have shifted to potential alternatives, notably Baker Mayfield. Recently, Cody Stoots, host of 'Stoots and Locker Texans Talk,' proposed that Mayfield could be a solution for the Texans' quarterback dilemma, especially given his ongoing contract negotiations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mayfield, who is entering the last year of his three-year, $100 million contract, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Buccaneers' offers. Stoots argues that acquiring Mayfield could significantly improve the Texans' chances, projecting a potential jump in Super Bowl odds. However, ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime criticized this notion, suggesting that Mayfield's current performance may not elevate the franchise as needed. The two quarterbacks faced off in a 2025 game, where Mayfield's marginally better performance raised questions about their comparative abilities. While Stroud is younger and cheaper, the Texans' offensive struggles could lead them to consider Mayfield if he becomes available on the trade market.