Could the Texans Consider Trading Danielle Hunter at the Deadline?
· Yahoo Sports
The Houston Texans entered the 2026 season expecting their defense to be one of the team's biggest strengths once again.
However, through seven games, the unit has been a disappointment and has raised questions about what changes could help turn things around. With the trade deadline approaching, one potential move worth considering is whether Houston could explore trading veteran pass rusher Danielle Hunter.
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There is no indication that the Texans are actively shopping Hunter or have any intention of making him available, so a trade remains speculation. However, several factors make the possibility worth discussing.
Hunter is 31 years old and is not getting any younger. Despite entering the later stages of his career, he remains one of the league's most productive pass rushers. He recorded 15 sacks last season and has four through seven games this year.
Hunter still has value as a pass rusher, and a contending team in need of some edge help could be willing to go all in for the All-Pro.
The question is whether the Texans would be better served keeping him or potentially turning his value into future assets.
Will Anderson Jr.'s emergence is a major reason the Texans could afford to consider moving Hunter. Anderson currently leads the league with 7.5 sacks, as he continues to establish himself as one of the NFL's premier young pass rushers. With Anderson leading the way, Houston could still have a capable pass rush even without Hunter in the picture.
At 2-5, the Texans also have to consider whether their current roster is positioned to compete this season or whether their focus should shift toward the future. Trading Hunter would not necessarily be about improving the defense immediately, but rather capitalizing on the value of a 31-year-old pass rusher who continues to produce. If Houston can receive meaningful draft capital in return, it could give them additional resources to build around their young core.
Of course, moving Hunter would mean giving up a proven veteran who remains productive.
Ultimately, the decision would come down to Houston's long-term outlook. If the Texans believe they can turn their season around, keeping Hunter makes sense. But in their current position, they may have to consider whether getting value for an aging veteran is more beneficial than holding onto him for a team that still has playoff aspirations.
Ultimately, there is no reason to assume a trade is imminent. Hunter is still contributing, and Houston has every incentive to keep their defensive personnel together if they believe the unit can improve.
Still, if the Texans decide to reconsider their direction before the deadline, Hunter is a name worth monitoring.