Texans Extend 5-Time Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter with $40.1M Deal

Houston locks up star pass rusher ahead of free agency, solidifying their defensive core.

Mar. 6, 2026 at 8:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Houston Texans have agreed to a one-year, $40.1 million contract extension with five-time Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter. The deal includes a $30.7 million signing bonus and keeps the veteran pass rusher in Houston for at least another season.

Why it matters

Retaining Hunter was a priority for the Texans, who boast one of the league's top defenses under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Hunter and fellow edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. form a formidable pass-rushing duo, providing the backbone of Houston's defensive identity.

The details

Over the past two seasons, Hunter has ranked third in the NFL in total sacks, trailing only Myles Garrett and Nik Bonitto. His extension leaves the Texans with $22 million in cap space, allowing them flexibility to potentially add more talent around their defensive core.

  • The contract extension was agreed to on March 6, 2026.

The players

Danielle Hunter

A five-time Pro Bowl defensive end who has been a dominant pass rusher for the Houston Texans over the past several seasons.

Will Anderson Jr.

A rising star edge rusher who has formed an elite pass-rushing duo with Danielle Hunter on the Texans' defense.

DeMeco Ryans

The head coach of the Houston Texans, who has overseen the team's transformation into one of the league's best defenses.

Nick Caserio

The general manager of the Houston Texans, who made the decision to extend Danielle Hunter's contract.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Texans and five-time Pro Bowl DE Danielle Hunter agreed to terms on a one-year, $40.1 million contract extension including a $30.7 million signing bonus.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network reporter

What’s next

The Texans will look to build on their strong defensive foundation and continue improving their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

By locking up Danielle Hunter with a lucrative extension, the Texans have solidified their defensive core and signaled their commitment to building a championship-caliber team around their elite pass rush.