The Houston Texans are solidifying their defensive lineup as they approach the 2026 NFL season. Following a strong performance in the previous year, the team is taking steps to ensure their defense remains formidable.
During the recent NFL Combine in Indianapolis, NFL Network”s Ian Rapoport provided updates regarding contract negotiations with the Texans” 2023 first overall pick, All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr.. Rapoport stated, “Deals come together when they come together, and a lot of times, these happen later in the spring.” He expressed confidence that a deal for Anderson Jr. would materialize soon, emphasizing the Texans” commitment to rewarding their key players.
Rapoport remarked, “They make it a priority to reward the guys who should be rewarded. You look across that defense, and they”ve got a lot of guys who are really good and who are going to make a lot of money. I would expect Will Anderson to be first, and I would expect him to be very, very worth it.”
In a notable move before finalizing Anderson Jr.”s contract, the Texans have already secured defensive end Danielle Hunter. On Thursday night, NFL Network”s Tom Pelissero reported that Hunter agreed to a one-year extension worth $40.1 million, which includes a signing bonus of $30.7 million. Insider Jordan Schultz confirmed that this contract is fully guaranteed.
Schultz highlighted Hunter”s remarkable financial trajectory, stating, “Hunter has been on fully guaranteed money with Houston since arriving in 2024, totaling $124.7 million, and this deal takes him to over $218 million in career earnings.” Since joining the Texans in March 2024, Hunter has established himself as a dominant force alongside Anderson Jr., forming an impressive pass-rushing duo.
Previously, Hunter played for the Minnesota Vikings, where he was drafted in the third round in 2015. Over his career, he has accumulated 114.5 sacks and consistently achieved double-digit sack totals, including 12 in 2024 and 15 in 2025 with the Texans.
Last season, the Texans showcased a Super Bowl-caliber defense, ranking first in yards allowed per game (277.2), second in points allowed per game (17.4), and third in turnovers generated (29). However, the team”s season ended in disappointment as quarterback C.J. Stroud threw four interceptions during a 28-16 loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional round.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the Texans” defensive core, bolstered by the presence of Anderson Jr. and Hunter, promises to be even more formidable.
