As the Houston Texans gear up for the 2026 regular season, they have revealed their team captains ahead of the initial matchup against the Buffalo Bills. This year, the team has chosen four captains, one less than the previous season.
The selected captains include quarterback C.J. Stroud, defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and defensive back Jalen Pitre. This marks the first time Pitre has taken on a captaincy role.
The adjustment in leadership comes after the team parted ways with veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale, who held a captain position last year and is now a free agent after his release from the Las Vegas Raiders. Wide receiver Nico Collins, who also served as a captain last season, is the only returning player not included in this year’s leadership group.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has highlighted the significance of strong leadership within the team, a focus he has maintained since becoming head coach in 2023. The Texans have prioritized acquiring players recognized for their leadership abilities, such as safety Reed Blankenship from the Philadelphia Eagles, along with several draft picks who were captains during their college careers.
Each of the four captains has a minimum of three years with the Texans, with Pitre entering his fifth season, making him the most tenured player on the roster. Their selection underscores their influence and presence in the locker room as the team prepares for the season opener, set for 12 p.m. CT on September 13th against the Bills.
