As the Houston Texans prepare for their 2026 regular season, they have named four team captains ahead of their Week 1 game against the Buffalo Bills. This year's selections include quarterback C.J. Stroud, defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and defensive back Jalen Pitre, who is serving as a captain for the first time.
The Texans' adjustment in leadership comes after the departure of veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale, a captain last season, who is currently a free agent following his release by the Las Vegas Raiders. Wide receiver Nico Collins, another captain from the previous year, is the only member of last season's leadership group not returning.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has emphasized the significance of leadership within the team, noting the strong culture he has built since taking charge in 2023. The Texans have also focused on acquiring players with leadership experience, including safety Reed Blankenship from the Philadelphia Eagles, along with several draft picks who were captains in college.
Each of the four selected captains has a minimum of three years with the Texans, with Pitre being the longest-tenured at five seasons. The captains will make their debut during the team's first game against the Bills, scheduled for 12 p.m. CT on September 13th.
