Derek Stingley Jr. has become the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history, a milestone he described as "crazy." The Houston Texans offered Stingley a three-year, $90 million contract, which includes an unprecedented $89 million guaranteed, marking him as the first cornerback to earn $30 million per season. This agreement surpasses the previous high set by Jaycee Horn, who secured a four-year, $100 million deal with the Carolina Panthers.
Stingley's performance on the field has been pivotal in securing such a lucrative contract. Last season, he recorded five interceptions, tying for sixth most in the NFL. He also achieved 18 pass breakups, ranking second in the league. Furthermore, Stingley was frequently assigned to shadow opposing teams' top wide receivers, including notable one-on-one matchups against stars like Tyreek Hill and Justin Jefferson over the past two seasons.
The young cornerback's stellar defensive capabilities are underscored by his ability to limit opposing quarterbacks' success. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he allowed a completion percentage of just 46.7% among cornerbacks with at least 200 coverage snaps, the second-lowest in the league.
"Receivers are starting to touch $40 million [annually]," said Derek Stingley, emphasizing the growing financial stakes for players across positions.
Stingley's contract is not only significant for him personally but is also expected to have a lasting impact on the valuation of cornerbacks in the league. By breaking previous salary ceilings, he believes this deal will be "big" for the position moving forward.
"That's something that you see on social media with other players, and other people whenever they make a deal with any sport," Stingley noted, reflecting on the broader implications of his historic contract.
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