Derek Stingley’s three-year, $90 million contract makes him the highest-paid defensive in the NFL.
Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. is currently the NFL’s highest-paid defensive back.
Stingley jumped to an incredible start to his college career as a freshman at LSU. He intercepted six passes and defended 21 passes with a total of 38 tackles as part of the LSU team that won the BCS National Championship. Despite playing just 10 games over the next two seasons, Stingley declared the 2022 NFL Draft. He was drafted by the Texans on his third overall pick and tied the NFL record for the cornerback who drew the best.
Stingley entered his rookie season as a cornerback starter. He played just nine games, but 45 tackles, intercepts, five passes were defended and there was a bag. He played in 11 games in 2023, earning 39 tackles, including Ross’ tackles. He also set a high career where five intercepts and 13 passes were defended. He ultimately played all 17 games in 2024 and spent his career years: 54 tackles, including four losses, 18 passes defense and five intercepts. He became the first player in franchise history to intercept two passes in the Texans’ 32-12 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in the wild card round, and to intercept two times in the playoff game. He earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors in Week 15, was selected to all pros of the first team, and also won a Pro Bowl nod.
Nick Caserio, executive vice president and general manager of the Texans, said the organization is expanding its capabilities at the NFL combine in February.
“He expressed his desire to be here,” added Caserio. “I hope Derek is here.”
Caserio also said he has a good relationship with Stingley’s agents. “But Derek took a chance here for his performance, for his performance.”
Stingley’s contract broke the defensive back record, but it was only one of several records that this free agency was broken.