The Houston Texans have done everything in their power this offseason to overhaul their organization from top to bottom. Could Minnesota Vikings edge defender Danielle Hunter, be another addition to help put this Houston Texans team over the top in 2023?
It's no secret that the Texans want to get better today. They are done waiting for the following year. They sent that message loud and clear when they traded their future first-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals to select edge defender Will Amderson Jr in the NFL Draft. First-time head coach and former defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans wants to do everything possible to field a top-five defense in 2023.
From Inside Minicamps LIVE on NFL+: The #Vikings are receiving trade calls centered around star pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, and the interest is real, sources say. A look inside the complex situation… pic.twitter.com/GKx98NSx0n
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 7, 2023
There are many options to rebuild one of the league's worst defensive lines in football. We've already discussed potential trades for the Washington Commanders Chase Young and New York Jets defensive tackle Quennin Williams, but now we have a new name enter the fold.
The Vikings have reportedly begun listening to offers, and the Houston Texans should submit one fast. Rarely do 28-year-old Pro Bowl pass rushers become available in the NFL. Yes, trading for Hunter would include signing him to a contract extension, but those extensions fit the current Texans' timeline.
Even with some injury concerns, should be a long list of teams interested in Danielle Hunter (with a major extension a necessity, smart team would agree to it as a condition of the trade)
— Brad Spielberger, Esq. (@PFF_Brad) June 7, 2023
Giants, Broncos, Texans, Bears, Panthers, Falcons, Saints
Acquiring Hunter would not be cheap.
In his career, Hunter, a Houston native, has racked up 71 sacks with seven forced fumbles. Per PFF, Hunter's last three seasons have been his, as his 89, 80.8, and 87.1 defensive ratings since 2020 signify. The Texans would have to give up some considerable draft capital to acquire Hunter's services, contract dispute or not.
My predicted trade would send Jonathan Greenard and two third-round selections for the disgruntled veteran. The conditional third could turn into a second based on Hunter's performance. He would continue to add immediate star power to a Texans front seven lacking that. Pairing him with rookie Will Anderson Jr. could give the Houston Texans the best pass-rushing duo they have ever had.
What do you think? How would you feel if the Texans traded and extended the Vikings' disgruntled star, Danielle Hunter? Join in on the conversation on our Toro Times Facebook page. You can also follow me on Twitter at @manfreonair.