SPORTS

Texans Sign Will Anderson Jr. To Record Extension

PUBLISHED Apr 17, 2026, 2:50 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 5

Center 80%

Right 20%

Sources: 5

Houston — The Houston Texans signed All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. to a three-year, $150 million contract extension on Friday, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Anderson, the Texans' 2023 third-overall pick, has recorded 30 career sacks, won Defensive Rookie of the Year, and started every game last season. The extension includes a no-trade clause and guarantees reported between $100 million and $134 million by different outlets; the Texans exercised Anderson's 2027 fifth-year option on April 8. The new deal keeps Anderson under contract through the 2029 season and follows a campaign in which he posted 12 sacks and 20 tackles for loss.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2023: Texans traded up and drafted Will Anderson Jr. third overall.
2023 season: Anderson won Defensive Rookie of the Year and earned a Pro Bowl nod.
April 8, 2026: Texans exercised Anderson's 2027 fifth-year option, per ESPN.
This week (reported Friday): Multiple outlets reported a three-year, $150M extension with a no-trade clause.
Post-reporting: Outlets circulated differing guarantee figures ($100M–$134M) while confirming $150M total value.

News Intelligence

This record deal shows the high value NFL teams place on top defensive players. If you're a Texans fan, it's a sign of commitment to a winning team. For parents of young athletes, it's a reminder that success isn't just for quarterbacks.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Will Anderson Jr. benefited financially and contractually by securing a three-year, $150 million extension that includes a no-trade clause and substantial guaranteed money reported by multiple outlets.

Who Impacted

Other NFL teams lost the opportunity to sign Anderson as a free agent during the extension period and will face the Texans' roster stability at his position.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 80%, Right 20%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Other NFL teams lost the opportunity to sign Anderson as a free agent during the extension period and will face the Texans' roster stability at his position.