At last year’s NFL scouting combine, discussions surrounding Texans wide receiver Nico Collins’ contract were on the rise. That conversation ultimately led to a lucrative three-year, $75 million contract extension, securing the homegrown talent’s future with the team. Now, a similar situation is unfolding for another standout player—cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.
As an All-Pro selection with an impressive seven interceptions this past season, including two in the playoffs against Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, Stingley has positioned himself as one of the top defensive backs in the league. With his eligibility for a contract extension now in play, speculation is growing over a potential deal that could make him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL.
A Commitment to Houston
Stingley has made it clear he wants to remain a Texan for the long haul.
“Yeah, I want to be here forever,” Stingley stated.
With both the team and player aligned in their intentions, formal contract negotiations are expected to take place this offseason between the Texans and Stingley’s agent, David Mulugheta of Athletes First. The Texans hold the option of extending Stingley’s contract through a fifth-year club option, but doing so may serve as a temporary measure while negotiations continue.
Breaking the Bank?
Stingley’s next contract could surpass $25 million annually, potentially reshaping the NFL’s cornerback market. Comparatively, other top-paid cornerbacks include:
- Patrick Surtain II (Denver Broncos): Four years, $96 million ($24M per year)
- Jalen Ramsey (Miami Dolphins): Three years, $72.3 million ($24.1M per year)
- Jaire Alexander (Green Bay Packers): Four years, $84 million ($21M per year)
- A.J. Terrell (Atlanta Falcons): Four years, $81 million ($20.25M per year)
- Denzel Ward (Cleveland Browns): Five years, $100.5 million ($20.1M per year)
Texans general manager Nick Caserio acknowledged Stingley’s contributions and the likelihood of contract discussions.
“Derek is a great player,” Caserio said. “He’s earned this opportunity because of his performance, and the fact that he wants to stay speaks volumes about the locker room culture and the leadership of DeMeco Ryans.”
Caserio emphasized that while negotiations have no set timeline, conversations will happen when the time is right.
“If we get something worked out, we get something worked out. If not, we’ll figure out the most appropriate time,” Caserio added.
The Making of an Elite Cornerback
Stingley’s development can be credited to his natural talent and his father, Derek Stingley Sr., who played a crucial role in honing his ball skills from a young age.
“My pops, doing drills with him as long as I can remember,” Stingley said when asked about his ability to track and catch the football.
Unlike many defensive backs, Stingley’s hands rival those of top wide receivers, making him a unique threat on the field.
“I just know how to catch the football,” he said simply.
Retired All-Pro cornerback Antonio Cromartie has long admired Stingley’s skillset.
“Look at how Sting carries himself, how he plays the game—he’s a true playmaker,” Cromartie said. “His ball skills, cover skills, physicality, and confidence make him one of the best in the league.”
Record-Breaking Season
Stingley’s All-Pro season solidified his reputation as an elite defender. He intercepted five passes in the regular season, locking down top receivers like Miami Dolphins star Tyreek Hill and cutting off two passes from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. His defensive stats were among the best in the league:
- 18 passes defended (2nd-most in the NFL)
- 56.9 passer rating allowed (lowest among CBs with at least 400 coverage snaps)
- 46.7% completion percentage allowed (best in the league)
His impact extends beyond coverage, as he also posted a career-high 54 tackles, four tackles for loss, and maintained an elite ability to disrupt passing attacks.
“Derek has done a great job when challenged downfield,” said Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. “He has a rare ability to track the ball and make plays.”
Looking Ahead
As the Texans continue to build a competitive roster, securing Stingley’s long-term future remains a priority. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, also represented by Mulugheta, expressed confidence in his teammate’s impending payday.
“He is probably the best athlete I have been around in my life,” Stroud said. “He deserves it. But that’s not his motivation—his motivation is being elite at football, and I think he’s going to be great in this league for a long time.”
For Stingley, his focus remains on the field rather than contract negotiations.
“I’ll let whoever handle that, handle that,” he said. “I’ll be here working out, taking care of me.”
As the Texans look to solidify their championship aspirations, ensuring Stingley remains a key piece of their defense is a move that seems inevitable.
