Derek Stingley Jr. is looking to do his part to help the Houston Texans free up cap space.
According to KPRC 2 Sports’ Aaron Wilson, the Texans plan to restructure Stingley’s three-year, $90 million extension to help give the franchise a bit more funds in the salary cap ahead of free agency.
Stingley, who last season became the highest-paid cornerback in the league, is reportedly due a $21.595 million base salary. The Texans are expected to convert the majority of that number into a signing bonus to prorate the salary cap impact, thus lowering his $27.1 million deal for the 2026 NFL season.
Part of the reason for the contract restructure comes with Houston’s need create more space to afford several outside free agents when deals can be signed next week. The other reason? Houston is expected to sign All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. to a blockbuster contract extension this offseason, which could make him the highest-paid defensive player in league history.
The Texans have been mindful of securing as much defensive talent long-term under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Should Anderson ink his deal, he’d be the third drafted player to be extended in two seasons, joining Stingley and nickel defender Jalen Pitre.
Last season, Stingley recorded 36 tackles, 15 passes defensed and four interceptions for a defense that finished the season ranked first in the NFL in total yards allowed per game (277.2), and second in scoring (17.4 points per game). Since 2023, he is the only cornerback in the NFL to record at least four interceptions in each campaign.
Several other players, including Pitre, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, wide receiver Nico Collins, tight end Dalton Schultz and new running back David Montgomery, are also expected to have restructured deals for the upcoming year. The Texans can free up over $30 million in cap space before free agency starts next week simply by making these five moves.
Houston is expected to be aggressive in free agency in fixing the offensive line, with as many as four new linemen joining the roster.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans plan to restructure All-Pro CB Derek Stingley Jr.’s contract
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
