Hunter and Texans Reach an Agreement on Big Time Extension

Danielle Hunter has cemented his reputation as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL over the past five years. This week, the Houston Texans made a significant move to acknowledge his impact on the field by offering him a substantial contract extension. This decision comes after an impressive season that showcased Hunter's exceptional skills and ultimately reaffirmed his status as an elite player in the league.

The Pro Bowler has struck a deal for a one-year, $35.6 million contract extension, propelling him into the ranks of the second-highest-paid defensive ends in the NFL. This remarkable pay increase reflects not only Hunter’s talent but also the Texans’ confidence in his ability to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. Last offseason, Hunter signed a two-year, $49 million deal with the Texans as a highly sought-after free agent. At that time, he was still under contract for one more year, which included a cap number of $23.7 million, along with three void years stretching from 2026 to 2028.

With this new extension, Hunter will now receive a total of $55.1 million over the next two seasons—a testament to his performance and the Texans’ commitment to bolstering their defensive line. Specifically, $32 million of that sum is earmarked for him in 2025, ensuring that he remains an invaluable asset for the team in the coming years.

Hunter’s performance last season was nothing short of spectacular, as he accumulated 12 sacks—a critical metric for pass rushers—alongside 46 combined tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and three passes defended, demonstrating his all-around defensive prowess. These contributions not only helped the Texans in crucial moments but also earned him his fifth career Pro Bowl selection, along with recognition in the form of Defensive Player of the Year votes. Such accolades reflect the respect he commands in the league and show that he is a top player at his position. Clearly, Houston values Hunter at an All-League rate, and I’m sure this deal should bring comfort to Texans fans as this franchise attempts to make competitive strides in the AFC.