HOUSTON — Derek Stingley Jr. and the Houston Texans have reached a significant agreement: a three-year, $90 million contract extension that makes him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
This new deal guarantees an impressive $89 million for Stingley, surpassing the previous record held by Jaycee Horn. Horn’s recent four-year, $100 million extension with the Carolina Panthers averaged $25 million annually.
Stingley’s performance last season earned him an All-Pro status. He recorded five interceptions, tying for sixth most in the league, and had 18 pass breakups, ranking second. His coverage skills were top-notch, allowing a mere 46.7% completion rate against him, placing him among the best cornerbacks with over 200 coverage snaps, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.
Selected as the No. 3 pick in the 2022 draft, Stingley played a crucial role in a Texans defense that ranked sixth in the league for passing yards allowed, with just 201 yards per game. He consistently took on elite wide receivers, including Tyreek Hill and CeeDee Lamb, showcasing his skills against tough competition.
Interestingly, when facing certain teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions, Stingley allowed quarterbacks to achieve a passer rating below five. Against the Cowboys, it was an astonishingly low 3.5.
This extension marks a milestone for Texans general manager Nick Caserio, as it is his first time extending one of his first-round draft picks. Prior to this, only one other draft pick, wide receiver Nico Collins, secured an extension, signing a three-year, $72.75 million contract in May 2024.
Contract extensions like Stingley’s reflect a growing trend in the NFL where teams rush to secure top talent. With player valuations on the rise, analysts expect more record-breaking contracts in the coming years. According to a recent report by Pro Football Focus, nearly 15% of NFL teams are expected to adjust their strategies to accommodate rising player salaries. This shift indicates a competitive landscape where star players like Stingley are becoming even more integral to team success.
As the NFL season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Stingley’s performance matches his hefty new contract and what it means for the Texans’ future.
For further insights on player contracts and team strategies, check out the latest reports from ESPN and NFL.com.
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