Texans to pick up fifth-year option for All-Pro DE Will Anderson Jr.

The long-term plan for the Houston Texans is to extend All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr., but that still remains in the works behind closed doors as the draft rapidly approaches.

What doesn't? Picking up the extra year of eligibility to keep Anderson in Houston through 2027.

The Texans have exercised the 2027 fifth-year options of both Anderson and Pro quarterback C.J. Stroud ahead of the start of voluntary workouts. Stroud will make $25.9 million while Anderson will receive $21.5 million in 2027, both of which are fully guaranteed salaries.

Stroud, who struggled at times last season amid a run toward the postseason, is expected to eventually receive an extension from Houston, though Anderson remains the team's top priority after a stellar third year under head coach DeMeco Ryans' scheme. As the new face of the franchise, Anderson finished top 10 in pressures, QB hits, sacks (12), and tackles for loss (20) while anchoring the No. 2-ranked total defense opposite Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter.

“They are exciting and really good young players we’ll hope to have around for a long, long, long time,” Texans owner Cal McNair told reporters last week at the league meetings in Phoenix.

The Texans own eight draft picks in the upcoming class later on this month.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans to pick up fifth-year option for All-Pro DE Will Anderson Jr.