As the Houston Texans prepare for the start of their 2026 regular season, they have officially announced their team captains ahead of the game against the Buffalo Bills. This year, the Texans have chosen four players to lead the team, a reduction from last season's five captains.
The selected captains include quarterback C.J. Stroud, defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and defensive back Jalen Pitre, who will take on this leadership role for the first time. The change comes after the departure of Dare Ogunbowale, a veteran running back and captain last year, who is now a free agent following his release from the Las Vegas Raiders.
Wide receiver Nico Collins, another captain from the previous season, is the only one not returning in a leadership capacity.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has highlighted the significance of leadership in the team, showcasing the strong culture he has built since becoming head coach in 2023. The Texans have prioritized acquiring players recognized for their leadership skills, including safety Reed Blankenship from the Philadelphia Eagles and several draft picks who were captains during their college careers.
Each of the four captains brings a minimum of three years of experience with the Texans, with Pitre entering his fifth season, making him the most seasoned member among them. Their selection underscores their influence and presence in the locker room as the team gears up for the season opener against the Bills, set for 12 p.m. CT on Sunday, September 13th.
