Texans land coveted free agent DE Danielle Hunter

Field Level Media|published: Tue 12th March, 19:52 2024

Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter (99) and cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (5) as wide receiver Darnell Mooney (11) looks to block during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. credits: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Four-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, perhaps the biggest remaining free agent, is leaving the Minnesota Vikings and joining the Houston Texans on a two-year, $49 million deal, multiple reports said Tuesday.

The agreement, which clears the way for a homecoming of sorts, is reported to include a guaranteed $48 million. Hunter, 29, was born in Jamaica and grew up in Katy, Texas.

He was drafted in the third round by Minnesota in 2015 and played 119 games (90 starts) over eight seasons.

The 6-foot-5, 263-pound Hunter, who missed the 2020 season and a good part of 2021 with injuries, played on a one-year contract last season. In Houston, he will be expected to fill the shoes of departed Texans edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, who signed with Minnesota.

Hunter compiled a career-high 16.5 sacks last season, giving him 87.5 during his tenure with the Vikings. He also led the NFL with 23 tackles for loss.

—Field Level Media