The Houston Texans are securing their defensive future by extending Danielle Hunter, a five-time Pro Bowler, with a new one-year, $35.6 million contract for the 2026 season. Hunter's remarkable performance lasted through his first year in Houston, where he recorded 12 sacks, ranking him fifth in the NFL alongside rookie sensation Will Anderson Jr., who added 11 sacks of his own. Together, they formed one of the league's most formidable pass-rushing duos, accumulating a combined 23 sacks, placing them third among all teammate pairs in the league.

Hunter's new contract brings his total earnings over the next two seasons to $55.1 million, with $54.1 million guaranteed, coming just behind Myles Garrett, who holds the highest salary among edge rushers. As the Texans look to build on their strong defensive core, Hunter and Anderson are poised to lead the charge in 2026 and beyond, solidifying Houston’s commitment to a robust defensive lineup.