Stroud Reunited With Harrison in Texans Trade
C.J. Stroud led the Houston Texans to their first win of the 2026 season on Sunday, routing the Tennessee Titans 26-3 in Nashville. Immediately following the victory, the organization confirmed it has acquired wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. via trade with the Arizona Cardinals, reuniting the former Ohio State teammates.
Dominant Outing Ends Winless Streak
The Texans (1-4) ended their winless start by dominating the Titans (0-5) on both sides of the ball. Stroud finished the afternoon with 261 passing yards and a touchdown while adding a rushing score. Houston’s defense, now calling plays under head coach DeMeco Ryans, held Tennessee to a season-low 187 total yards. Will Anderson Jr. anchored the pass rush, recording three of the team’s four sacks. Ka’imi Fairbairn contributed four field goals, helping build a 12-3 halftime lead as Houston outgained the Titans 225-49 during the middle quarters.
According to the Associated Press, this marks the second season that Houston has snapped an opening winless streak by defeating the Titans. Tennessee’s loss extends its losing streak against AFC South opponents to 11 games, marking the franchise’s worst start since 2009.
A Collegiate Connection Renewed
The trade brings Harrison to Houston, pairing him once again with his primary target from their collegiate days at Ohio State.
“I loved him in college,” Stroud said. So, I’m excited to get him in here and get him learning, and get him around other guys. And I think it’s perfect for him. I think fresh starts are good.”
Injury Woes Mount for Both Sides
Tennessee’s offensive production remained stagnant throughout the contest. Their only points came on an opening drive that ended in a 30-yard field goal by Joey Slye. Quarterback Cam Ward finished with 170 passing yards. The team’s struggles were exacerbated by injuries: safety Kevin Winston Jr. is scheduled for an MRI on a quadriceps injury, while cornerback Cor’Dale Flott left the game with a chest injury.
Houston also faced personnel setbacks. Running back David Montgomery suffered a groin injury in the second quarter and did not return. Ryans indicated that Montgomery may miss time, and safety Jalen Pitre, who recovered a fumble during the game, will undergo further tests for a shoulder injury.
Looking Ahead to Next Sunday
The Texans are scheduled to travel to London for a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Titans will look to secure their first win of the season when they visit the Indianapolis Colts.
Key Playmaking
Stroud’s performance included a pivotal 17-play, 8-minute-23-second scoring drive in the third quarter. During that sequence, he scrambled to avoid All-Pro tackle Jeffery Simmons on third-and-11 before connecting with Kayshon Boutte for a 23-yard sideline reception.
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