As the Houston Texans prepare for their 2026 regular season, they have announced their team captains, which include four players this year, one less than last season. The chosen captains are C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson, Azeez Al-Shaair, and Jalen Pitre, with Pitre stepping into this leadership role for the first time.
The adjustment in leadership comes after the departure of Dare Ogunbowale, a captain from the previous season, who is now a free agent following his release from the Las Vegas Raiders. Nico Collins, who also held a captaincy last year, is the only returning player from that group not continuing in a leadership position.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has highlighted the significance of leadership within the team, showcasing the strong culture he has built since becoming head coach in 2023. The Texans have prioritized adding players recognized for their leadership skills, such as safety Reed Blankenship from the Philadelphia Eagles and several draft picks who were captains during their college careers.
Each of the four captains has a minimum of three years of experience with the Texans, and Pitre, entering his fifth season, is the most tenured among them. Their selection underscores their influence and presence in the locker room as the team gears up for the season opener against the Buffalo Bills, set for 12 p.m. CT on September 13th.
