Or Texans could opt for drafting another QB.
Getting FA QBs rarely work out, apart from any HOF worthy QBs moving to another team. Ballard made inexplicable move of going after FA QBs one after another, instead of evaluating each draft class heavily with very intent of finding next franchise QB, and Philly did that at the same time.
If Stroud retires, most good GMs would look to draft next franchise QB, rather than selling fan base that team is championship Caliber and a FA QB is all they need to get close to winning it all.
Just as how Texans GM didn't believe the hype of Young, and evaluated well about Stroud, there's a high chance he could find another successful QB or at least a good pocket passer in the draft.
It's not right to say Texans would go after FA QBs one after another if Stroud retires just because Ballard did that.