Texans DE Danielle Hunter ranked No. 68 in NFL Top 100 Players of 2024

The NFL debuted its annual Top 100 Players of the Year on Monday, and so far, two Texans players have been mentioned heading into the weekend.

On Tuesday, Pro Bowl offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil made the list following another successful season, appearing at No. 71.

On Wednesday, newcomer and former All-Pro Danielle Hunter debuted at No. 68 on NFL+.

Hunter, a Houston native and four-time Pro Bowl defensive end, left a lasting mark in his final season with the Vikings last fall. Not only did he lead the NFL with 23.5 tackles for loss, but he also finished top-five in sacks with 16.5 takedowns.

Once in free agency, Houston became a prime destination given his background. Instead of taking a more lucrative deal, Hunter agreed to terms on a two-year, $49 million contract to play in front of the hometown crowd.

“Danielle is like having another coach on the field,” Texans defensive line coach Rodrique Wright said Wednesday. “He’s got a great football IQ.

Obviously, he’s one of the best pass rushers in the game and after practice, he’s babbling with the young guys. He’s teaching them rush moves. This front is made for men like him who can rush the passer.”

Hunter, who’s totaled 87.5 career sacks in eight years, is looking to extend that number in Houston. History suggests that he’ll reach at least ten before the postseason arrives.

Since being drafted out of LSU in 2015, Hunter has averaged 10.5 sacks per season when he’s played in at least 16 games. Outside of missing the entirety of the 2020 season due to a herniated disc in his neck, he’s remained quite durable.

Hunter mentioned he feels more free working in Ryans’ pass-rushing sets. Perhaps that leads to an NFL lead in sacks this fall?