NFL fans stunned over Danielle Hunter’s $35,600,000 contract extension with Texans

Danielle Hunter is staying in Texas beyond 2025. On Wednesday, the Houston Texans reportedly extended the five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher’s contract for one year, worth $35.6 million.

Originally set to make $19.5 million this season, Hunter will now receive a $12.5-million raise, bringing his earnings to $32 million annually—the second-highest salary for a defensive end in the league, which has surprised many fans.

“Outrageous overpayment by a franchise that continues to embarrass itself.”

However, others focused on the positives:

“Glad he got extended,” one fan rejoiced.

“Nick is cooking,” another mused.

“Here comes a nice 7-sack season,” another wished.

On the same day, the Texans signed offensive tackle Cam Robinson, who will reunite with guard and fellow ex-Viking Ed Ingram, acquired in a trade. They are projected to replace Laremy Tunsil and Kenyon Green, who departed in separate deals.

How Danielle Hunter’s $35.6M Extension Impacts Trey Hendrickson’s Contract Situation

Massive pass-rusher extensions have become a hot topic in free agency. At one point, Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett were the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the league, with Josh Sweat, Harold Landry, and DeMarcus Lawrence also securing significant deals.

Cincinnati Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson has been seeking a massive contract extension alongside Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz provided a “fluid” update on the negotiations:

“One league source even suggested they should punt to 2026 and give him a one-year deal worth $30 million—though it’s unclear if that would appease Hendrickson… The Bengals recognize Hendrickson’s importance to the team and remain in constant contact with his camp, hoping to get something done.”

Sports Illustrated’s James Rapien noted that Danielle Hunter’s new extension could serve as a benchmark for what the Bengals might offer Hendrickson:

“Hendrickson is set to make $16 million in base salary this season. (The Bengals) would need to give him a significant raise this year and make him one of the NFL’s highest-paid defensive ends on a one-year extension. Like Hunter, he’s probably looking for a multi-year deal that includes a significant increase in pay this season.”

The Indianapolis Colts have been projected as the top trade destination for Hendrickson, as they have coaches familiar with him and need a replacement for now-Chicago Bear Dayo Odeyingbo.

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Edited by Chaitanya Prakash