The Houston Texans have signed star defensive end Danielle Hunter to a one-year, $35.6 million contract extension, making him the second-highest-paid defensive end in the NFL, per Tom Pelissero. This extension comes after a period of intense negotiations, as Hunter expressed his desire to stay beyond his original two-year deal and general Manager Nick Caserio and the staff moved quickly to finalize the agreement this week, per Patrick Storm.
As part of the deal, Hunter is now under contract through the 2026 season, with $54.1 million guaranteed over the next two years. The extension should provide some cap savings (TBD), allowing them to continue building their roster while securing one of the league’s top pass rushers.
In addition, 98 percent of Hunter’s $55.1 million total, or $54.1 million, is fully guaranteed for skill, injury, and salary cap, per Aaron Wilson. This further underscores the Texans’ commitment to keeping Hunter as a central part of their defense.
In the 2024 season, he recorded 46 total tackles, including 31 solo tackles, and 12 sacks, tying for fifth in the league. Additionally, he notched one forced fumble and three pass breakups, earning an overall grade of 82.7 from Pro Football Focus (PFF).
The deal follows recent extensions for other top defensive ends, including the Raiders' Maxx Crosby, who signed for $35.5 million per year, and the Browns' Myles Garrett, who signed for $40 million per year. Hunter’s extension gives him $35.6 million APY in 2026, highlighting his value among the league’s elite pass rushers.
Hunter’s extension solidifies his place on the Texans' roster, keeping a key defensive piece in Houston through the 2026 season. As one of the league’s top pass rushers, Hunter’s presence will be crucial to the Texans' defensive strategy moving forward.
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