Will Anderson Jr. signed a historic 3-year, $150 million extension with the Houston Texans on May 2, 2026. This deal makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
The contract includes $134 million guaranteed and an annual average of $50 million. Anderson’s signing bonus is $32 million. He has recorded 30 sacks and 136 total tackles in his first three seasons.
Houston exercised Anderson’s fifth-year option at $21.512 million prior to the extension. This deal keeps him with the Texans through the 2030 season.
Anderson was a two-time unanimous All-American at Alabama before entering the NFL. He was selected by the Texans as the third overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
LeBron James commented on Anderson’s achievements, stating, “Unbelievable football player, deserving of everything that he’s got.” James also noted their physical resemblance, saying, “The moment was pretty cool… him and Bronny are twins and don’t nobody know it.” Anderson humorously responded, “I don’t look like him, though.”
The extension reflects a growing trend in NFL contracts where teams invest heavily in defensive players. As teams look for game-changing defensive ends, Anderson’s contract sets a new standard.
Observers expect this contract to influence future negotiations for other top defensive players in the league.
