In 2024, the Houston Texans clinched the AFC South title and secured a spot in the playoffs for the second consecutive year. The team wrapped up the previous season with a 10-7 record and triumphed over the Chargers with a decisive 32-12 victory in the wildcard round.
Despite falling to the Chiefs in the divisional round with a 23-14 loss, the Texans still have plenty to be optimistic about. Instead of simply opting for his fifth-year extension, Houston decided to make a bold move by signing cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. to a significant long-term contract. This new deal is a three-year agreement worth $90 million, almost all of which—$89 million—is guaranteed. With this contract, Stingley becomes the highest-paid cornerback in the league, pocketing $30 million annually.
Derek Stingley Jr. has now set a new standard as the league’s highest-earning cornerback at $30 million each season.
The deal, handled by agent David Mulugheta of Athletes First, includes a nearly full guarantee. This news was highlighted on Twitter by NFL insider Ian Rapoport, who confirmed Stingley’s market-defining deal.
Back in 2022, the Texans had high hopes when they drafted Stingley with the third overall pick. Coming from LSU, where he won a national championship as a first-year player, he was regarded as a top prospect. However, his transition to the NFL wasn’t entirely smooth, with injuries causing him to miss 14 games in his initial two seasons—eight in his debut year and another six in 2023.
Yet, when Stingley is on the field, his impact is undeniable. He has recorded five interceptions in each of the last two seasons. The 2024 season was a breakthrough for him, as he managed to stay healthy and compete in all 17 regular-season games. He achieved career-high numbers, finishing with 54 combined tackles, including 37 solo tackles, and defended 18 passes. These performances earned him a selection to the Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors that year.
Following his stellar season, Stingley capitalized on his success with this significant contract extension. Before this new deal, the highest-paid cornerback was Carolina’s Jaycee Horn, who was earning $25 million annually. Stingley’s $30 million per year now resets the market standard for cornerbacks in the NFL. In 2024, the Texans’ defense was key in keeping the team competitive despite the offense’s struggles, and Stingley played a crucial role in that. His contribution is pivotal to the team’s continued success.
