The Houston Texans have made a significant move to secure their defensive future by signing cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. to a three-year, $90 million contract extension, with $89 million guaranteed. This agreement, averaging $30 million per year, establishes Stingley as the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history, surpassing the previous record held by Carolina Panthers’ Jaycee Horn, who had recently signed a deal averaging $25 million annually.
Stingley, 23, has been a cornerstone of the Texans’ defense since being selected third overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. His performance in the 2024 season was particularly noteworthy, earning him first-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection. During that season, he recorded five interceptions and 18 pass deflections, allowing the second-lowest completion percentage among cornerbacks in the league.
Over his three-year career with Houston, Stingley has accumulated 11 interceptions and 36 pass breakups across 37 games, all of which he started. His consistent excellence has been instrumental in positioning the Texans’ pass defense among the NFL’s elite.
The contract extension reflects the Texans’ commitment to retaining top talent and underscores Stingley’s value to the team. His agent, David Mulugheta of Athletes First, has a history of negotiating substantial contracts for his clients, including quarterback Deshaun Watson and current Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud.
General Manager Nick Caserio has been proactive this offseason, restructuring contracts and making strategic moves to create salary cap flexibility. These efforts have facilitated significant signings, including Stingley’s extension, and have positioned the Texans to pursue additional talent in free agency.
Stingley’s extension not only secures a vital defensive asset for Houston but also sets a new benchmark in the cornerback market. His performance and leadership are expected to be pivotal as the Texans aim to build a competitive team in the upcoming seasons.