Derek Stingley Jr. Becomes Highest-Paid Cornerback in NFL History

HOUSTON, Texas — Derek Stingley Jr. has made NFL history by signing a three-year, $90 million extension with the Houston Texans, according to multiple reports. This deal, which includes a staggering $89 million in guaranteed money, positions Stingley as the highest-paid cornerback in league history, with an average annual salary of $30 million.

The Texans solidified their defense by locking down the 23-year-old cornerback, who had an impressive third season in 2024. During that season, Stingley registered five interceptions and 18 passes defended, earning him first-team All-Pro honors and his first Pro Bowl selection.

Selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Stingley struggled with injuries in his first two years, appearing in only nine games as a rookie and 11 in his second season. However, 2024 marked a turning point in his career as he played all 17 games and excelled on the field.

Stingley’s performance statistics are noteworthy. He allowed the lowest passer rating (56.9) and the lowest completion percentage (45.7 percent) among all cornerbacks who participated in at least 400 snaps in coverage last season, according to NextGenStats. His outstanding skill set became evident during the playoffs when he recorded two additional interceptions, helping the Texans dominate the Los Angeles Chargers with a 32-12 victory in the wild-card round.

Sources have indicated that the Texans’ decision to extend Stingley came after recent record-setting contracts for cornerbacks, including a $25 million-per-season extension for Jaycee Horn earlier this month. “This contract reflects Derek’s worth as an elite player,” said an unnamed source when discussing the deal. “His ability to impact games is remarkable and crucial for our organization.”

As the cornerback market evolves, Stingley’s new deal sets a high bar that rivals and future players will aspire to reach, signaling a shift in the valuation of defensive backs in the NFL.