Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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The Houston Texans have agreed to a 1-year, $40.1 million contract extension with defensive end Danielle Hunter. The deal includes a $30.7 million signing bonus and will keep Hunter in Houston through the 2027 season. This new contract makes Hunter the 4th highest-paid pass rusher in the NFL, behind only Micah Parsons, Aidan Hutchinson, and T.J. Watt.
Why it matters
Hunter’s extension is a sign that the Texans are committed to keeping their dominant defense together. After recording 15 sacks in 2025 and helping the Texans have one of the league’s best defenses, the team has rewarded Hunter with a lucrative new deal to keep him in Houston long-term.
The details
The 31-year-old Hunter was previously under contract for only the 2026 season, with a $31.3 million cap number and a guaranteed $22.6 million salary. His new deal will increase his average annual value to make him the 4th highest-paid pass rusher in the NFL. Working opposite All-Pro pass-rusher Will Anderson, Hunter led the Texans in sacks with 15 and helped the team have the league’s top-ranked total defense in 2025.
The new contract extension will keep Danielle Hunter in Houston through the 2027 season.
The players
Danielle Hunter
A 31-year-old defensive end for the Houston Texans who recorded 15 sacks in 2025, earning second-team All-Pro honors.
Will Anderson
An All-Pro pass-rusher for the Houston Texans who teamed up with Danielle Hunter to form one of the league’s most dominant defensive fronts in 2025.
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The takeaway
The Texans’ decision to extend Danielle Hunter’s contract shows their commitment to keeping their elite defense intact. By locking up one of the league’s top pass-rushers, Houston is positioning itself to remain a defensive powerhouse in the coming years.