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Texans QB C.J. Stroud's Change in Appearance Draws Attention

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rolly Gacelo | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 6:11 AM ET

Offseason started early for the Houston Texans after they lost to the New England Patriots in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs. Now, C.J. Stroud has made two notable moves that people thought is connected to his focus for next season.

First is when Stroud declined an invitation to the Pro Bowl. Second is when he debuted a new look.

Houston barber Kase McGee shared a clip of Stroud getting his dreadlocks removed. The popular opinion on his decision is that it is his way of starting a new chapter.

"Fresh cut for a fresh start," a commenter wrote. Another one said, "Less weight on his head he better be able to throw that damn ball correctly lol."

"Cut all that negativity out your head yup we are definitely going to the Super Bowl," a poster added.

Bleacher Report also shared Stroud's new look and reactions varied. Others thought he looked familiar, and they might be on point.

"He hit us with the fresh start chop lol," a supporter shared. A follower stated, "Hell yea John legend."

A sixth social media user remarked, "Bruh look like Brittany Griner."

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Stroud's upcoming fourth season is under the microscope following a 2025 finish that critics thought regressed from his first two, especially in the postseason. He got sacked fewer times compared to 2024, but his turnover rate in the playoffs is suspect. He recorded five interceptions, four more than last year's one in the same number of games.

He had four interceptions against the Patriots in the second round, as the Texans settled for a 28-16 defeat. The team failed to go past the divisional round for a second straight year.

General manager Nick Caserio thought they could have been better offensively in the loss to the Patriots, per ESPN.

"In the end we didn't execute well enough," Caserio said. "You can't turn the ball over five times in the divisional round. Taking care of the football is the single most important stat correlated to winning."

With Stroud's renewed sense of focus, though, plenty of eyes will be on him when the 2026 season rolls around.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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