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Houston Texans, Will Anderson Jr. agree to record-breaking $150M contract extension: Reports

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Published  April 17, 2026 2:54pm CDT
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FOX 26 Houston

The Brief

    • Will Anderson Jr. reportedly agreed to a three-year, $150 million extension.
    • The deal includes $134 million in guaranteed money and a no-trade clause.
    • At $50 million per year, Anderson becomes the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.

HOUSTON, Texas - The Houston Texans are making a massive statement about the future of their defense, reportedly securing star edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. with a historic contract extension.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 20: Will Anderson Jr. #51 of the Houston Texans reacts against after the game against the Buffalo Bills at NRG Stadium on November 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

A Historic Payday in Houston

According to NFL Media, the Houston Texans and Will Anderson Jr. have agreed to terms on a three-year extension worth $150 million. 

The blockbuster deal sets a new market for defensive players, featuring a staggering $134 million in total guarantees.

The contract effectively keeps the cornerstone of the Texans' pass rush in Deep Steel Blue for the foreseeable future. 

The contract's $50 million average annual value (AAV), officially makes Anderson the highest-paid non-quarterback in the history of the league, surpassing previous benchmarks set by elite edge rushers and wide receivers.

Building Around a Defensive Cornerstone

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 20: Will Anderson Jr. #51 of the Houston Texans celebrates a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks during the third quarter at Lumen Field on October 20, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jane Gershovich/Getty Images)

Since being drafted No. 3 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Anderson has been the heartbeat of DeMeco Ryans’ defensive scheme.

His ability to disrupt backfields and lead in the locker room made an extension a top priority for General Manager Nick Caserio.

By locking up Anderson now, the Texans avoid a potentially more expensive negotiation down the road while ensuring their defensive identity remains intact.

The inclusion of a no-trade clause further underscores the mutual commitment between the franchise and the former Alabama standout.

Setting the Market

The $50 million annual salary represents a significant jump in the NFL’s salary hierarchy.

 As the salary cap continues to rise, the Texans chose to be aggressive, setting a new floor for future negotiations involving elite defensive talent across the league.

For Houston fans, the message is clear: the Texans are in a "win-now" window and are willing to spend record-breaking capital to keep their homegrown superstars at NRG Stadium.

The Source: The NFL and Fox Sports.

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