NFL Signings and Deals: J.J. Watt Agrees to $100 Million Deal With Texans, Becomes Highest-Paid Defensive Player in NFL History
The Houston Texans reportedly agreed to sign J.J. Watt to six-year deal worth $100 million, which would make the defensive end the highest-paid defensive player in National Football League history.
The Houston Chronicles reported that the Texans and Watt have agreed to a six-year contract extension on Monday, which will be formally signed on Tuesday followed by a news conference, 6 p.m. EST, at the NRG Stadium.
According to reports, Watt's contract, which will keep him in Houston until after the 2021 season, includes a guaranteed $51.876 million, which is also the highest for a defensive specialist. It broke the record-setting six-year deal worth $96 million contract Mario Williams signed with the Buffalo Bills.
Watt, the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, has proved his worth in his first three seasons in the league, tallying 36.5 sacks. In 2012 alone, the 25-year-old had 20.5 sacks, which was more than enough for him to be named as the league's best defender during that season.
The former Wisconsin standout said in August that he is expecting a lucrative deal from the Texans after surpassing expectations in his first three seasons in the league.
"I think when a team gives a big contract after the third year, they're saying, 'Listen, we think you've earned this.' 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 said via ESPN.
Texans team owner Bob McNair declined to reveal their plans last month, but he admitted that they will put a lucrative offer on the table, knowing that it will be for the best interest of the team.
Both Watt and the Texans have expressed intention in striking a long-term partnership, with the Waukesha, Wisconsin native saying that he would like to spend the rest of his career in Houston.
"I love the fans that we have. I love the relationship we have. The city is so great. The way that they've treated myself and my family, I couldn't ask for a better place to play," Watt said.
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