Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Houston Texans have secured another cornerstone of their defense, agreeing to a two-year, $16 million contract extension with linebacker Henry To’oTo’o, according to multiple reports.
The deal, which includes up to $1 million in incentives, keeps the 25-year-old under contract through the 2028 NFL season.
Texans Continue Investing in Defensive Core
To’oTo’o becomes the latest defensive standout to receive a new contract from Houston this offseason as the franchise continues to lock up key contributors.
He joins defensive end Will Anderson Jr., who signed a record-setting three-year, $150 million extension, along with Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair and All-Pro pass rusher Danielle Hunter, who also received new deals this offseason.
The extension underscores Houston’s commitment to maintaining one of the league’s top defenses for years to come.
Henry To’oTo’o has Emerged as a Reliable Starter
A fifth-round pick out of Alabama in the 2023 NFL Draft, To’oTo’o steadily developed into an every-down linebacker after earning a starting role during his second season.
He recorded 105 tackles in 2024 during his first year as a full-time starter before following that up with 95 tackles and 2.5 sacks last season. Over the past two years, he has also contributed four sacks and seven pass breakups while providing versatility at multiple linebacker spots.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans recently praised To’oTo’o’s consistency and football intelligence.
“What Henry brings to our defense is he brings this smart calmness to our defense,” Ryans said. “He’s always in position, always exactly where he should be.”
Houston Rewards Another Homegrown Talent
To’oTo’o is now the second member of Houston’s 2023 draft class to earn a contract extension, following Anderson’s blockbuster deal.
The Texans have made retaining their young defensive nucleus a clear priority after building one of the NFL’s stingiest units. Along with extensions for Derek Stingley Jr., Jalen Pitre, Al-Shaair, Hunter and Anderson, To’oTo’o’s new deal provides additional long-term stability on defense.
Since entering the league, To’oTo’o has totaled 261 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception, establishing himself as an important piece of Houston’s defense heading into the 2026 season.
