HOUSTON — The initial of numerous postseason financial agreements for the Houston Texans’ defensive unit was finalized on Thursday through a single-year, $40 million extended agreement for edge rusher Danielle Hunter, as confirmed by an ESPN insider.
This marks Hunter’s second contract renewal with the Houston franchise; he previously inked a two-year, $49 million pact as an unrestricted player in March 2024, following an eight-season tenure with the Minnesota Vikings.
Having concluded the 2024 season with 12 sacks and Pro Bowl recognition, the Texans compensated him by adding a one-year, $35.6 million amendment to the conclusion of his initial contract. Furthermore, they provided him with a $12 million salary increase in 2025, thereby elevating his pay to $32 million.
Hunter’s sophomore campaign with Houston proved more successful than his inaugural year; he tallied 15 sacks (ranking third in the NFL) and 15 tackles for a loss (placing eighth). This impressive output garnered him second-team All-Pro distinction, coinciding with the Texans’ defense standing at second overall in points allowed (17.4 per game) and total yardage conceded (279.1 yards per game).
This agreement represents the initial of several expected to be finalized for the Texans’ defensive unit. Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, who received Pro Bowl recognition, is currently in the final year of a $34 million, three-year contract he inked in 2024. Insiders within the league anticipate Al-Shaair will receive a contract renewal.
A similar anticipation exists for Will Anderson Jr., the third overall selection from the 2023 draft. The edge rusher from Alabama experienced a standout season in 2025, concluding with 20 tackles for a loss (ranking fourth) and 12 sacks (tied for eighth position). Anderson secured his inaugural first-team All-Pro nod, in addition to his second Pro Bowl recognition.
The Texans aim to secure their key defensive players with long-term commitments, a strategy they’ve pursued after allocating a three-year, $90 million extension to cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. and a three-year, $39 million deal to nickelback Jalen Pitre in 2025.
NFL Network initially broke the news regarding Hunter’s agreement with the Texans.