HOUSTON -- The Houston Texans are making headlines again, this time with defensive end Danielle Hunter, who has officially inked a one-year, $35.6 million contract extension, securing his position with the team through the 2026 season. The deal was confirmed by a source to ESPN on Wednesday, March 20, 2025, further bolstering the Texans' already formidable defense.
Last year, Hunter joined the Texans on a two-year, $49 million deal after spending eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. His initial contract was loaded with incentives, and with a strong showing in the 2024 season, where he made his Pro Bowl debut, the Texans have opted to add $35.6 million to the back end of that original deal.
Hunter’s contract extension comes as a reflection of his stellar performance; he was tied for fifth in the NFL in sacks last season, achieving a total of 12. His impressive pressure rate of 23.9% was second among all players with at least 200 pass rush snaps, according to Next Gen Stats. This level of performance helped propel Houston's defense, which ranked fifth in the league for total sacks last season, totaling 49 overall.
In addition, Hunter’s presence contributed significantly to the Texans’ success in generating turnovers. The defense intercepted a total of 19 passes, which ranks as the second most in the NFL, and overall, the team totaled 29 takeaways, placing them fifth. The Texans’ defense also managed to keep opponents' scoring relatively low, finishing 14th in points allowed per game at 21.9.
The Texans’ defense played a pivotal role in their successful campaign last season, most notably during a wild-card playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers. In that game, Hunter, along with his defensive teammates, forced Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert into four interceptions, including a pick-six, contributing to the Texans' ability to clinch the AFC South title.
In the lead-up to this contract extension, the Texans were not done making moves. On March 17, 2025, the team also agreed to a three-year, $90 million extension with cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., officially making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. This flurry of contractual agreements is part of a clear strategy from the Texans’ management to solidify their core defensive talent for the coming years.
Hunter’s new deal not only reflects his value on the field but also reaffirms his place among the league's elite defensive ends. After claiming five Pro Bowl selections and achieving double-digit sacks six times in his nine seasons, he stands as one of the more consistent defensive stars in the league. With a total of 99.5 sacks so far, he ranks fifth among active players and has notably recorded 39 sacks since the start of the 2022 season, placing him fourth overall in that timeframe.
The signing of Hunter also underscores the Texans' direction under head coach DeMeco Ryans. The team’s recent acquisitions, including trades for wide receiver Christian Kirk and defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson, signify an aggressive approach to bolster both their offensive and defensive lines.
Moreover, with Hunter securing his contract, the Texans now have a solid duo in him and 2023 third overall draft pick Will Anderson Jr., which creates a formidable pass rush combination that should enhance the team's chances of further success.
To further strengthen their offensive line, the Texans made headlines this past week for trading offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders and subsequently agreeing to a one-year deal with Cam Robinson just yesterday, March 19, 2025. Such moves reflect the ongoing commitment from the front office to increase the competitiveness of the roster as they prepare for the 2025 season.
The overall strategies employed by the Texans this offseason paint a picture of a franchise that is not only looking to maintain its competitive edge but also aiming for sustained success in the AFC South and beyond. With key players like Hunter and Stingley front and center, Houston looks poised to make waves as they head into the new NFL season.
In conclusion, as Danielle Hunter continues to make his mark on the field, the Texans are strategically maneuvering to reinforce their team. With solid defensive performances and ambitious roster developments, they're aiming for an impactful 2025 season.
