As the Houston Texans gear up for the 2026 regular season, they have revealed their team captains in advance of their opening game against the Buffalo Bills. This year, the Texans have chosen four captains, a reduction from last season's five. The selected players are quarterback C.J.
Stroud, defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and defensive back Jalen Pitre, who will take on captain duties for the first time.
The change in leadership comes after the release of veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale, who held a captain role last season and is now a free agent following his time with the Las Vegas Raiders. Wide receiver Nico Collins, who was also a captain previously, is the only one from last year's leadership group not returning.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has stressed the significance of leadership within the team, building a strong culture since his appointment in 2023. The Texans have aimed to recruit players recognized for their leadership skills, including safety Reed Blankenship, acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles, along with several draft picks who served as captains during their college careers.
Each of the newly appointed captains has a minimum of three years with the Texans, with Pitre being the most experienced, entering his fifth season. They will showcase their leadership during the Texans' first matchup against the Bills, set for 12 p.m. CT on September 13.
