Another Houston Texans defender isn’t leaving the core anytime soon.
According to multiple reports, the Texans and linebacker Henry To’oTo’o have agreed to terms on a on a two-year $16 million extension, keeping him in Houston through the 2028 season. According NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, To’oTo’o can earn another $1 million in incentives based on his on-field play.
A 2023 fifth-round pick out of Alabama, To’oTo’o carved out a starting role midway through his rookie season. Since then, he’s been a staple at the weakside linebacker position, totaling 35 starts in 46 games.
Last season marked a career year for To’oTo’o. Outside of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ loss and the victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, fans would say results were strong for the secondary linebacker beside Azeez Al-Shaair. He finished with 95 tackles, the second-most on the Texans’ top-ranked defense behind Al-Shaair, along with three sacks and nine tackles for losses with four quarterback hits.
“What Henry brings to our defense is he brings this smart calmness to our defense,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said one day before To’oTo’o’s deal was finalized. “He’s always in position, always exactly where he should be. You can count on him. You can put a lot on his plate. He can handle things. He can play the Mike and the Will position. He’s a very versatile guy. Henry plays with passion and fire, that rubs off on other guys. To see him play, it’s fun to watch him play.
The Texans’ defense has been a priority for Houston over the last two years and players continue to get paid for their efforts. This offseason, Houston already inked extensions with All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr., Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter and Al-Shaair. Both Al-Shaair and Anderson received three-year extensions, keeping them in Houston through at least 2028.
Last year, All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. was signed to a three-year extension, keeping him through 2028. Defensive back Jalen Pitre also signed a three-year extension worth $39 million, keeping him around through the 2028 season.
Over his three seasons with Houston, To’oTo’o has totaled 261 career tackles, 18 tackles for losses, two forced fumbles and one interception with four sacks. He’s become a key figure in the Texans’ top-ranked defense and should remain an impact on the roster for years to come en route to a deep postseason push.
“My main goal is bringing the city of Houston a Super Bowl. That’s what you play the game for. Every time we put this uniform on and set foot on the grass, if you’re not coming out to win, if you’re not coming out to be a champion, then you’re not doing it for the right reason. I think we all understand that.”
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans lock up LB Henry To’oTo’o on a two-year, $16 million extension
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cole Thompson, Texans Wire | USA TODAY Network
