HOUSTON — Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. signed a three-year contract extension worth up to $150 million, establishing him as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
The deal includes $134 million in guaranteed money and averages $50 million per year. The extension begins after Anderson completes the final two years of his rookie contract.
Texans Head Coach Demeco Ryans praised Anderson's practice performance. "Will continues to wreck practice," Ryans said Thursday. "I'm probably gonna have to sit him out soon. We have to actually be able to practice. He keeps wrecking practice, he keeps causing havoc, so just keep doing what he does."
Ryans said Anderson's practice intensity matches his game performance. "It's what he does on Sundays, as well, so that's no surprise. Will is the guy for everyone to watch. The intensity at which we operate, that's how Will Anderson plays, and that's how I want everyone to be."
The Texans traded up to the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Anderson, who has quickly become one of the league's premier pass rushers.
Over three seasons, Anderson has recorded 30 career sacks. Last season he posted 12 sacks—tying for eighth in the NFL—and 20 tackles for loss, tying for fourth. The Texans' defense allowed the second-fewest points (17.4 per game) and fewest yards (277.2) in the league last season.
