The Houston Texans have signed one of their core avid gamers to a long-term deal, simply two weeks ahead of the start of the common season.

According to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle, the Texans have agreed to a four-year, $58 million extension with linebacker Zach Cunningham. The deal comprises $23.5 million guaranteed.

2020 marks the general season of Cunningham's four-year rookie deal. The Texans may not have to concern about probably shedding him in 2021 unfastened agency, and if essential, they may be able to use the franchise tag on anyone else.

Cunningham was once drafted in the second round - 57th overall - by the Texans in 2017.

Through his first three NFL seasons, Cunningham recorded 3.5 sacks, three fumble recoveries, Thirteen passes defended and 339 blended tackles. He has been one of the crucial precious gamers on a Texans defense that ranked close to the ground in every major class remaining season.

With Cunningham now signed long-term, the Texans now need to focus on a long-term extension for quarterback Deshaun Watson. The latter is beneath contract for 2 more seasons.

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The Cunningham extension caps off a hectic offseason for head trainer and de facto common supervisor Bill O'Brien. Back in April, he signed megastar offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil to a three-year, $66 million extension.

O'Brien additionally rebuilt the Texans offense with a handful of notable strikes. He traded away Pro Bowl wideout DeAndre Hopkins to the Houston Texans, receiving veteran operating back David Johnson as a part of the go back. He also signed veteran slot receiver Randall Cobb in loose company (a three-year, $27 million deal) sooner than obtaining standout receiver Brandin Cooks from the Los Angeles Rams by means of industry.

The Texans have gained consecutive AFC South department titles. Last season, they complex to the Divisional Round, falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. The franchise has but to reach the Conference Championship Game, but the items are there for Watson and corporate to pass on a deep playoff run.

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