As the Houston Texans prepare for their 2026 regular season, they have announced their team captains ahead of the Week 1 game against the Buffalo Bills. This year, the Texans selected four captains, a decrease from last season's five. The chosen players are quarterback C.J.
Stroud, defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and defensive back Jalen Pitre, who will serve as a captain for the first time.
The change in leadership comes after the departure of veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale, who was a captain last year and is currently a free agent following his release from the Las Vegas Raiders. Wide receiver Nico Collins, who also held a captain role last season, is the only captain from that group not returning.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans highlighted the significance of leadership within the team, which he has emphasized since taking over in 2023. The Texans have focused on acquiring players recognized for their leadership skills, including safety Reed Blankenship, who was brought in from the Philadelphia Eagles, along with several draft picks known for their captaincy in college.
Each captain has a minimum of three years with the Texans, and Pitre enters his fifth season, making him the most experienced among them. Their selection underscores their influence and presence in the locker room as the team gears up for the new season. The Texans will introduce their captains during the first game against the Bills, scheduled for 12 p.m. CT on September 13th.
