(HOUSTON) –The Houston Texans have rewarded one of the top defensive players in the league with the top contract ever for a defensive player. J.J. Watt and the Texans have agreed to a new six-year deal worth a reported $100 million, with $51.8 million of that guaranteed.
That makes him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history, beating out the contract record held by Mario Williams. Watt will earn an approximate $16.6 million per year, also a record total for a defensive player.
Watt had hoped in August to work out a new deal with the team that drafted him with the 11th overall pick in 2011.
“I think when a team gives a big contract after the third year, they’re saying, ‘Listen, we think you’ve earned this,’” Watt said. “I don’t know if [the Texans] feel that way or not, but I sure hope I’ve put in all the work, and I’ve put in everything I can do to hopefully earn it.”
Watt is possibly the most loved athlete in this city. He’s already a two-time All Pro and a Defensive Player of the Year winner. He’s racked up 36.5 sacks during his first three seasons.
But more than that, he’s transcended the sport. He’s not the face of the franchise. He’s the face of Houston.
SEE ALSO: WATT A GUY! Why Houston Texans Fans Love JJ Watt
LISTEN: NEWS 92 FM’s Dennis Spellman gets reactions from fans
ABC News contributed to this story.
JJ Watt, Texans Agree to Record-Breaking Contract Extension was originally published on news92fm.com
