Some thought the franchise should move on, after C.J. had significantly regressed in each year post his rookie season.

Now, the Texans have a decision to make in the coming years: whether to extend Stroud to what will likely be a monster extension. And after his poor play over the last two seasons, some don’t think it is worth it.

Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay has issued caution over paying Stroud.

“It wasn’t long ago that the Houston Texans appeared to have found a franchise quarterback who they could build around for the long haul,” Kay wrote. “Things have since hit a snag and the team now must weigh its options at the position.

“Stroud has a Spotrac projected market value of $51.6 million per season, a hefty number for a quarterback who has been wildly inconsistent outside of his breakout rookie campaign. He’s shown the potential to be an upper-echelon starter, but his brutal postseason performances should have Houston wary of committing that type of money over an extended period.”

More: Do Ravens’ Super Bowl hopes rest on 1 key draft selection? 

Should Texans extend Stroud?

That will be the $50 million question, won’t it?

The worst thing is, we have seen what Stroud is capable of, and the Texans haven’t been scrubs with him at quarterback, but they could be so much better.

Plus, with a stellar defense, Stroud just doesn’t have to crash this car into a ditch, and Houston will be fine, but over the last two seasons, he can’t help it.

Will the Texans pay Stroud and bank on him turning it around? Maybe.

But let me tell you this, Stroud will be under the most pressure of any quarterback in football in 2026.

He plays well; the extension will be forthcoming. But if he regresses again, then we might have to have a talk about his future with the franchise.

More NFL news:

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But Williams is now off the board, as the Dallas Cowboys reportedly signed him to a three-year, $24 million contract extension, with $16 million guaranteed.

That is a strong measuring stick for the Jets and Jaguars when it comes to what Hall and Etienne could command in free agency.

Hall is widely viewed as the most coveted pending free agent at the position thanks to his explosive skill set that makes him a home-run threat as a runner and pass-catcher.

Etienne has a stronger track record of production than Williams and Hall thanks to his three 1,000-yard seasons as compared to Hall’s and Williams’ one, and like those players, Etienne is an asset both in the ground and passing games.

Spotrac projects Etienne will receive a two-year, $13.6 million deal, which would come in under what Williams is getting annually. We believe Etienne will at least secure a contract closer to the $8 million per year Williams is getting.

As for Hall, Spotrac sees a four-year, $41.5 million deal. If Hall is as coveted as we believe he is, earning a double-digit annual average certainly isn’t out of the question.

Hall may never hit free agency, though, as ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports the Jets are leaving the door open to franchise tag Hall, but he also notes that the transition tag is a possibility, which would allow Hall to negotiate with other teams but still gives the Jets the opportunity to match.

The transition tag price is $11.7 million for running backs in 2026, so if the Jets go that route, it’s possible Hall could receive an offer that exceeds $12 million per.

Etienne, on the other hand, is highly unlikely to get tagged by the Jaguars and has a far better chance to hit the open market than Hall.

More NFL News

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Now, there is no doubt that Duren deserves a massive contract from the Pistons for how he is playing. He and Cade Cunningham appear to be the duo of the future, as they are a legitimate one-two punch as a center and point guard, respectively.

Duren understands his worth as a basketball player

Duren was up for an extension during the summer of 2025, but it looks like he and the Pistons could not agree to a deal. It likely fueled Duren because he wants to have a big contract that he believes he is worthy of getting.

This season, he has broken out into stardom as the Pistons’ second-best player behind Cunningham. Duren is averaging 18 points, 11 rebounds, and a block per game. He is also extremely efficient with his offense, shooting at a 62.9% clip from the field.

More: Three Pistons players land on ESPN’s list of best NBA players under 25 years old

With no assurance of a long-term contract on the table, Duren made sure that he would impress this season. Now, he is one of the league’s most productive centers with his numbers. He is also a huge reason why the Pistons are so successful this season. 

Duren understands his worth in the extension talks, so his performances show that he wants more. 

“Going into it, I didn’t want to know too much at first—but I did want feedback. I wanted to understand what the team was thinking, where they wanted to see me evolve and excel, and how they wanted me to develop,” Duren said on The Zach Lowe Show.

“I wasn’t upset. It was just more of just, I understood my worth. I do think the team probably didn’t understand my worth too. We just weren’t able to come to an agreement at that specific time.”

Moving forward, Duren has earned a huge contract, possibly a maximum extension. The Pistons would love to have Cunningham and Duren as their duo of the future, and with their roster construction, they have a good supporting cast around them as well. 

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Now, the franchise faces a crucial decision regarding the 15-time All-Star. Durant is on an expiring deal and eligible to sign a two-year extension worth up to $122 million. However, it’s unclear whether the Rockets are willing to make that kind of financial commitment to Durant, who is entering his age-37 season. 

While the two sides still have plenty of time to reach an agreement, teams around the league will certainly be monitoring the 2014 MVP’s status ahead of his potential free agency next summer. 

Heat eyeing Rockets’ Kevin Durant 

Durant and the Rockets appear not to be in a rush to reach an agreement, though Houston’s financial flexibility could ultimately dictate his future. With Tari Eason eligible for an extension this summer and Amen Thompson eligible for one next offseason, the Rockets must carefully balance keeping their young core while working out a deal with Durant. 

If no extension is reached and Durant becomes a free agent next offseason, the Miami Heat are reportedly interested in signing the aging superstar, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. 

“Durant will forever be a Heat possibility if he makes it to free agency; the Heat always has held him in high regard, but key members of the organization disagreed about which players to offer in trade negotiations with Phoenix in June,” he wrote. 

The Heat were ultimately unable to match the Rockets’ trade package for Durant. Still, Miami is currently under the tax threshold this season and projects to have ample cap space next offseason. 

If Durant and the Rockets are unable to come to terms on an extension, Miami stands out as a realistic landing spot for the superstar forward.

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After finishing second in the West during the 2024-25 regular season, the Rockets will aim to contend for their first title since 1995 with Durant leading the way. But with the superstar entering the final year of his deal, Houston will push to secure a two-year maximum extension with him before free agency begins next offseason. 

According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Durant is currently eligible to sign a two-year extension worth up to $122 million. Entering his age-37 season, it’s unclear whether the Rockets will be willing to pay Durant the full amount. However, the team offers him a clear path to another title in the twilight of his career, which could help both sides reach common ground. 

Durant could be next in line for an extension 

According to William Guillory of The Athletic, the Rockets are reportedly looking to secure an extension with Tari Eason before finalizing Durant’s deal. Even so, it appears likely he’ll sign an extension to remain with Houston past the 2025-26 campaign. 

“This hasn’t become a big deal yet because all signs point to Durant inking some form of extension in the coming weeks that will tie him to Houston for the foreseeable future,” he wrote. “… The belief among many around the NBA is that Houston is working to secure a long-term extension with Eason — who has one year remaining on his contract — before inking Durant’s new deal.”

Given his age, Durant may be more focused on stability and finding a long-term home for the remainder of his career. The Rockets, who gave up significant assets to acquire him, would likely welcome him back beyond this season — especially if he’s willing to take less than the full $122 million deal. 

Despite suffering a ruptured Achilles in the 2019 NBA Finals, Durant has remained a perennial star in the latter stages of his career. He has made five consecutive All-Star appearances since returning from the injury. Additionally, he averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists across 36.5 minutes per game in 62 regular-season outings with the Phoenix Suns last year, recording shooting splits of 52.7/43.0/83.9. 

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Giddey began the summer seeking an annual salary in the $30 million range, though Chicago reportedly offered a four-year, $80 million contract. With few teams able to meet the 6-foot-8 point guard’s asking price, the Bulls initially held most of the leverage. Still, with a deal not yet in place and the season fast approaching, the franchise appears increasingly eager to lock him in long term. 

Cam Thomas recently accepted his qualifying offer of $6 million with the Brooklyn Nets, and Giddey could follow suit by accepting his $11.1 million qualifying offer. The possibility he could take this path gives the 22-year-old added leverage, as the Bulls could risk losing him for nothing if he ultimately accepts the qualifying offer. Additionally, he would hold a no-trade clause ahead of unrestricted free agency next offseason. 

Bulls raise stakes in negotiations with Josh Giddey

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints recently outlined the state of the restricted free agent market following Thomas’ decision, revealing that the Bulls have increased their offer to Giddey. 

“Although they held firm on their offer of around $20 million per season, the Bulls have recently increased their proposed contract to try and end this stalemate,” he wrote. “Chicago has presented Giddey and his representation with a four-year contract in the ballpark of $85 million to $90 million, league sources said.” 

After being acquired from the Oklahoma City Thunder in June 2024, the Australian point guard showcased his solid all-around talent in his first season with the Bulls. Over 70 regular-season appearances, he averaged 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting a career-high 37.8 percent from three-point range across 30.2 minutes per game. 

Giddey also saw a significant boost in production following the All-Star break, averaging 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, 9.3 assists and 1.5 steals in 34.3 minutes per game over his final 19 regular-season outings. During that stretch, he shot 50.0 percent from the field and 45.7 percent from downtown. 

Giddey appears to be a featured player in Chicago’s long-term plans, and letting him enter unrestricted free agency could prove costly. On the bright side, the Bulls’ increased offer suggests they are committed to finding common ground.

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The Bavarians desperately needed attacking reinforcements after selling Kingsley Coman to Al Nassr and after a lot of deadline day drama, the eventually managed to land the Senegalese forward. 

According to the Telegraph’s Matt Law, Bayern are paying a €16.5m loan fee to the Blues whereas the obligation to buy clause is worth €65m ($75.8m).

The deal happened with a lot of drama as Chelsea called him back from Munich after Liam Delap got injured in their 2-0 win over Fulham in the Premier League. 

The English striker is expected to stay out for almost two months and considering the lack of depth in the striker position, Chelsea blocked Jackson’s loan move to Bayern Munich. 

However, later, they recalled Marc Guiu from Sunderland and allowed the Senegalese to complete his Bundesliga switch temporarily. 

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Jackson and his agents Ali Barat and Diomansy Kamara were extremely determined to find a solution even when Chelsea called them back to London and eventually all the parties agreed to a solution. 

What did Bayern Munich bosses say about Jackson joining the club?

The 24-year-old is a unique profile, who predominantly plays as a striker but can also feature in behind a primary striker and also play on the left due to his pace, athleticism and dribbling abilities. 

Jackson could be the perfect Harry Kane backup whilst also featuring along with him in a 4-4-2 system, handing Vincent Kompany an additional option on the bench. 

However, Bayern Munich director of sport, Maximilian Eberl highlighted that it was a very tough negotiation with Chelsea, he said, “The negotiations with Chelsea were very very tough, we have to say that. But we achieved a very good result and found the kind of player we were looking for.”

“Even during the difficult situation [yesterday], Nicolas has never worried or had any doubts. He simply said I want to be here and want to play for FC Bayern. That was impressive. We tried everything in the background to make it happen.”

Christoph Freund also shared his views on the Senegalese striker, he said, “Nicolas will add another dimension to our attacking play. He covers a wide range of areas. He brings a lot of speed, is dangerous in front of goal and looks for ways to get in behind the defence for the good of the team. He is also an open, positive guy and will have no trouble settling into our team.”

“He’s a striker who likes to play as a 9, but also gets in behind as a number 10, he’s a central player. But he also played on the wings because he has a lot of pace,” Freund equipped on Jackson‘s position. 

Overall, it is one of the most expensive loan deals in football and it remains to be seen if Jackson manages to replicate that price tag on the field.

Bayern Munich fans and everyone associated with the club will hope for that the Senegalese finds his feet in Bavaria, especially after whatever they went through on deadline day to bring him on loan. 

Bayern Munich news and related links

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“Still I stayed quiet but again after repeated shots at myself and all the narratives I have made a tough decision I no longer want to play for the Dallas Cowboys. My trade request has been submitted to Stephen Jones personally,” Parsons posted.

For some time, it was unclear if the Cowboys would actually trade Parsons. During the week, the Green Bay Packers began gaining buzz as a potential destination for Parsons.

“I infamously put Jaire at 0.01%. FWIW – I’m putting Parsons at like 5%. Trust me when I say I’m as skeptical as anyone. But there does seem to be some sort of buzz,” Packers reporter Andy Herman wrote.

On Thursday, the Packers acquired Parsons. Not only did Green Bay secure Parsons, but they also made life difficult for their division rival.

“The Packers might have gotten a double whammy out of this. Micah Parsons’ new deal — at $47M per year — could directly impact the division rival Lions, who are actively negotiating with Aidan Hutchinson. Parsons and Green Bay just blew the doors off the market. We’ll see if it ends up affecting it or not,” NFL insider Ari Meirov posted.

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The situation in Detroit just got more interesting, especially with the market skyrocketing. The Lions’ top priority is extending Hutchinson, but that will now come at a much higher cost.

Parsons may have helped the Packers before ever playing a snap for the franchise. Now, the Lions will have to get very close to that number — or possibly match it. At the end of the day, someone is going to pay up for Hutchinson. Hutchinson would likely sacrifice some money just to stay in the state he has grown up in.

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Busquets parted ways with his boyhood club, Barcelona, after over 15 illustrious years, during which he won 32 trophies, including nine La Liga titles and three Champions League titles.

While Busquets is nearing his 100th appearance for the Herons, concerns about his future at the club have also surfaced, especially as his current deal there is set to expire at the end of this year. Now, the 37-year-old has shared his thoughts on achieving that milestone while addressing questions about a possible contract renewal.

“I wanted to come and enjoy a new stage in my sporting and family life, in a new club. There were many things to improve, and I wanted to contribute my experience. I’m very happy to have reached that milestone,” as per GOAL.

“There is no news. When I left Barça, I already knew I wouldn’t return to Spain or Europe. I’m closer to the end of my career than to continuing it. There’s nothing regarding a supposed renewal or a supposed retirement – when there’s news, we’ll communicate it.”

Busquets also expressed his willingness to give up his designated player spot for Inter Miami to have space to bring on additional reinforcements. The DP rule, which was adopted prior to the 2007 season when David Beckham signed for the LA Galaxy, allows MLS clubs to exceed their salary cap for global stars with a limited number of players.

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Busquets, along with Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, are three franchise players for Inter Miami.

What did Sergio Busquets say about releasing his designated player spot for Inter Miami?

While speaking further about his future at Inter Miami, Busquets mentioned that he has ‘a lot to consider’ and added,

“Yes, obviously, I think it’s obvious that the conditions would change because the three spots for each team are filled. I feel good. Luckily, injuries have respected me and coaches continue to count on me. I always said that when the time came to leave Barça, I wanted to do it the right way, and that’s what I did – I left while still winning titles. When the moment comes to announce a decision, I will do it. I still have a lot to consider.”

Busquets and Inter Miami will be looking to bag a win in their upcoming Leagues Cup semifinal clash against Orlando City on August 27 at Chase Stadium.

Inter Miami news and related links

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Acquiring the 15-time All-Star, who turns 37 in September, vaulted Houston into true Western Conference contender status. The Rockets had enjoyed an encouraging run in 2024-25, finishing with the No. 2 seed thanks to a 52-30 record.

Houston was knocked out of the playoffs by the veteran-laden Golden State Warriors after a seven-game first round slog.

Will Kevin Durant stay in Houston long-term?

The Phoenix Suns shipped Durant to Houston in exchange for the No. 10 pick in this year’s draft (used on Duke center Khaman Maluach), five future second-round picks, young shooting guard Jalen Green and All-Defensive Team small forward Dillon Brooks. The deal eventually got folded into a blockbuster seven-team trade, the first of its kind in the NBA, that also included the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks.

Brian Windhorst of ESPN reveals that Durant had seemed to at least be open to an extension when he listed the Rockets among his preferred trade destinations earlier this summer.

No extension had been agreed to in the June trade. Now, the clock is ticking until Durant can hit unrestricted free agency next summer.

MORE NEWS: Fans expect Rockets’ recent top 5 pick to make leap next season

The two-time Finals MVP’s addition improves an already-good Rockets club. Durant will join incumbent All-Star big man Alperen Sengun, All-Defensive Team forward Amen Thompson, just re-signed former All-Star and champion point guard Fred VanVleet, freshly-extended recent lottery pick forward Jabari Smith Jr., and intriguing young forward Tari Eason on a team that feels ready to at least try to dethrone the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

The addition of Durant had a ripple effect. Houston soon had agreed to deals with 3-and-D combo forward Dorian Finney-Smith, rim-rolling center Clint Capela (a former James Harden-era Rocket), and defense-first guard Josh Okogie. Beyond their new deals with Smith and VanVleet, the Rockets also re-signed free agents Steven Adams, Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday and Jeff Green.

Armed with this roster, the Rockets rank among the Thunder, Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves as probably the class of the conference.

Windhorst indicates that Durant and Houston have at least discussed an extension, and are expected to eventually put pen to paper and get it done before he reaches free agency. Windhorst notes that, with Durant not seen as a total franchise “centerpiece,” he may need to accept less than a minimum deal to remain with the Rockets, his sixth team, long-term.

Still, Durant instantly becomes the best player on the team next season. 

In 62 healthy games for the admittedly bad (36-46) Suns last season, the 6-foot-11 Texas product averaged 27.2 points on .527/.430/.839 shooting splits, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.2 blocks and 0.8 steals a night. He has made 50 percent or more of his field goals for 13 straight years.

MORE NEWS: Rockets blockbuster trade proposal lands $316 million All-Star in Houston

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