Texans, Danielle Hunter agree to one-year extension for massive amount, per report

The Houston Texans and edge rusher Danielle Hunter have agreed to a one-year extension worth $35.6 million. The deal makes him the NFL’s second-highest paid defensive end, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. The new contract will give him $32 million this season–a $12.5 million raise–and $55.1 million ($54.1 fully guaranteed) over the next two years.

Hunter and the Houston Texans had an excellent season this year, winning their Wild Card matchup in the playoffs over the LA Chargers, 32-12. Then in the AFC Divisional Round, they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs, losing 23-14.

More on Danielle Hunter and his prolific career

He spent from 2015-2023 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he blossomed into one of the most dominant pass rushers in the National Football League. Last season with the Texans, Hunter tallied 12 sacks and 46 combined tackles in 17 games. He also had three pass deflections. One of his best seasons came in 2023 with the Vikings, when Hunter had 83 tackles and 16.5 sacks, once again showcasing him as one of the league’s best. He’s been a five-time Pro Bowler during his highly decorated career thus far.

The Minnesota Vikings drafted Hunter out of LSU in the third round (No. 88) of the 2015 NFL Draft. While with the Tigers, Hunter had 142 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, eight pass deflections, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one touchdown.

As a member of the Class of 2012, Hunter was a four-star recruit out of Katy (Texas) High, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 40 overall prospect in the state, the No. 23 EDGE prospect in the class and the No. 273 overall prospect in the class.

On3’s Nick Kosko also contributed to this article.