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Danielle Hunter
Danielle Hunter
Danielle Hunter
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Danielle Hunter (/dəˈniːl/ də-NEEL; born October 29, 1994) is a Jamaican-American professional football defensive end for the Houston Texans of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the LSU Tigers and was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft. Hunter made four Pro Bowls with the Vikings prior to signing with the Texans in 2024.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Born in St. Catherine, Jamaica on October 29, 1994, Hunter moved to the United States when he was 8 years old. He grew up in Katy, Texas, just west of Houston, where he attended Morton Ranch High School. He got signed up for youth football after a coach saw him playing tag with another boy who was trying to get away on roller skates. As a junior, he led his football team to their first Class 5A State Playoffs appearance despite playing defensive end for the first time as a freshman because he performed poorly in wide receiver tryouts. He tallied 63 tackles and seven sacks in his junior season. As a senior, he recorded 30 quarterback pressures, 11 tackles for losses, four sacks and four pass breakups on defense, while also catching four passes for 63 yards and a score on offense. In his final high school game against Lamar High School, he was credited with 16 stops. During his high school career, Hunter compiled 108 total tackles.[1]

In track and field, Hunter competed in both sprinting and jumping events. Checking in at 6'6", 225 pounds, Hunter captured the district title in the high jump with a leap of 1.83 meters (6 feet, 0 inches) while also placing 5th in the long jump with a leap of 6.40 meters (20 feet, 11.5 inches) and 6th in the 400-meter dash with a time of 51.47 seconds at the 2011 District Meet.[2]

Regarded as a four-star recruit by Rivals.com, Hunter was rated as the No. 37 prospect in the state of Texas.[3] He was also ranked as the 14th best defensive end by Scout.com, 21st by Rivals.com and 34th by ESPN.com.

College career

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Hunter attended Louisiana State University from 2012 to 2014, where he was a two-year starter at defensive end for the Tigers.

Freshman

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See also: 2012 LSU Tigers football team

As a true freshman in 2012, Hunter was only 17 years old. He saw action in 12 games with no starts, playing most of the time on special teams, including kickoff coverage. He was active in every game with the exception of the South Carolina game in October 13. He had a season-high three tackles in a win over Idaho on September 15.[4] Hunter ended his first year with 12 tackles, including three solo.[5]

Sophomore

[edit]
See also: 2013 LSU Tigers football team

As a sophomore in 2013, Hunter played in 13 games, starting 10 of them after breaking into the starting lineup on September 21 against Auburn. In that game, his first start, he recorded a then career-best eight tackles and a quarterback hurry in a 35–21 win over the eventual national runner-up.[6] He had an outstanding all-around game in a win over Florida with seven tackles, one tackle for loss and two pass breakups.[7] He closed the year with four tackles, including a sack for a 4-yard loss, in the win over Iowa in the 2014 Outback Bowl.[8] Hunter finished the season with 57 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, five quarterback hurries and a pair of pass breaksups.[9][10][11]

Junior

[edit]
See also: 2014 LSU Tigers football team

Hunter returned as a starter for his junior year in 2014.[12] For the first time in his career, he played and started all 13 games for the Tigers, contributing as a key member of an LSU defense that led the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in total yards (316.8 yards per game) and pass defense (164.2 yards per game) and ranked No. 2 in the league in scoring defense with 17.5 points per game. In the season opener game, he helped the Tiger defense limit Wisconsin to 32 yards on 19 plays over the final 27 minutes of the contest as LSU erased a 17-point deficit to beat the Badgers 28–24. Against Mississippi State, he had six tackles, a sack and scooped up a Dak Prescott fumble on the first play of the second half, racing 25 yards for a touchdown. After setting a career-high in tackles with 12 against Auburn in week 4, he became the first LSU defensive lineman with double-digit tackles in a game since Glenn Dorsey had 11 tackles against Ole Miss on November 28, 2006. He was the first LSU defender to score on a fumble return since Tyrann Mathieu did it on a 23-yard return in win over Kentucky on October 1, 2011. In LSU's win over Kentucky in week 8, he had one of his best all-around games with six tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, a quarterback hurry and three pass breakups. He played a key role in LSU's upset win over third-ranked Ole Miss with nine tackles, including two for losses, in a 10–7 win over the Rebels. He closed out the season with nine tackles, including one for a 4-yard loss, against Notre Dame in the Music City Bowl. For the season, Hunter recorded 73 tackles, including 30 solo stops, 1.5 sacks, six pass breakups and a pair of quarterback hurries. His 13.0 tackles for loss ranked 10th in the SEC.

He played in 38 games with 23 starts in three years, and started 23 straight games at defensive end. He opted to forgo his final season at LSU and declared for the 2015 NFL draft in January 2015. He finished his college career with 142 tackles, 21.0 tackles for loss (79 yards), 4.5 sacks (27 yards), eight pass breakups, seven quarterback hurries, and two forced fumbles (including a touchdown on a 25-yard fumble return).

College statistics

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Season Team GP GS Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
Cmb Solo Ast Sck TfL PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2012 LSU 12 0 12 3 9 0.0 0.0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2013 LSU 13 10 57 19 38 3.0 8.0 2 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2014 LSU 13 13 73 30 43 1.5 13.0 6 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 1 25 1
Totals 38 23 142 52 90 4.5 21.0 8 0 0 0.0 0 0 2 1 25 1

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

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Following his junior season, Hunter entered the 2015 NFL draft.[13] Described as a defensive end with tremendous athletic upside and a good motor, Hunter was often compared to Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul in terms of his similar length, burst and potential.

External videos
video icon Hunter's NFL Combine workout
video icon Hunter gets drafted by Minnesota
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
6 ft 5+1⁄8 in
(1.96 m) 		252 lb
(114 kg) 		34+1⁄4 in
(0.87 m) 		10+1⁄2 in
(0.27 m)		 4.57 s 1.57 s 2.67 s 4.35 s 6.95 s 36.5 in
(0.93 m)		 10 ft 10 in
(3.30 m)		 25 reps
All values from NFL Combine and Pro Day[14][15]

At the 2015 NFL Combine, Hunter registered a time of 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash, the fastest time among all defensive linemen. He also did 25 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press.

Minnesota Vikings

[edit]

2015

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Hunter was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft with the 88th pick overall.[16] The pick was part of a trade where the Vikings traded back in the third round, giving up their 80th overall pick for the third- and fifth-rounders (88th and 143rd overall) of the Detroit Lions.[17] As a rookie in 2015, Hunter was the youngest player in the NFL, but quickly managed to earn a rotational role on defense and finished second among all NFL rookies and second in the team in sacks with 6.0. After two seasons in Minnesota, Hunter compiled 18.5 career sacks and four games in which he finished the day with at least 1.5 sacks. Since 1985, only Keith Millard and Kevin Williams registered more sacks than Hunter in their first two NFL seasons with the Vikings.[18]

In his first career start, Hunter had four tackles, half a sack and was credited with a forced fumble in the Vikings' 16–10 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in week 6. The forced fumble ended the Chiefs' second-to-last drive of the game. In week 8 against the Chicago Bears, Hunter recorded a sack and a tackle. In week 15, Hunter continued to see an expanded role on the defensive line as he played 48 of 64 snaps in the Vikings' blowout win over the Chicago Bears 38–17, recording 1.5 sacks and five total tackles. Hunter finished the season with 33 total tackles (29 of them solo), 10 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks, 25 quarterback pressures, 1 pass defensed and a forced fumble. On January 19, 2016, Hunter was named to the Pro Football Writers of America's (PFWA) 2015 NFL All-Rookie team.[19]

2016

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Hunter scored the first touchdown of his professional career on a 24-yard fumble return against the Tennessee Titans. Shortly after his fumble return, he broke through to sack Marcus Mariota deep in his own territory.[20] Against the Green Bay Packers in Week 2, he was credited with 4 tackles and a strip sack as the Vikings opened their new U.S. Bank Stadium with a 17–14 victory.[21] In Week 3 with the Vikings trailing 10–0 to the Carolina Panthers late in the first quarter, Hunter shoved left tackle Michael Oher to the turf and eluded guard Andrew Norwell to sack Cam Newton in the end zone for a safety. It was the first safety since Jared Allen had one on December 4, 2011, against the Denver Broncos.[22] Hunter had his first career multi-sack game in Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals, helping the Vikings end their four-game losing streak. Against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 13, Hunter had his second two-sack game of the season. In 16 games with the Vikings in 2016, Hunter accumulated 54 total tackles, 12.5 sacks (including a safety), one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery for a touchdown despite the fact that he did not start a single game. He was also credited with 55 quarterback hurries according to Sam Monson at Pro Football Focus (PFF).[23] Hunter was the only Viking to be featured on NFL.com analyst Elliot Harrison's All-Under-25 team.[24]

2017

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In week 4 against the Detroit Lions, Hunter sacked quarterback Matthew Stafford twice and defended a pass during the 14–7 loss. These sacks were Hunter's first of the season.[25] In week 8 against the Cleveland Browns in London, Hunter forced a fumble on running back Isaiah Crowell which was recovered by teammate Anthony Harris on the first offensive play of the second half. The Vikings eventually won the game 33–16.[26] Hunter recorded a sack in the next three games against the Redskins, Rams, and Lions respectively. Hunter finished the regular season with 45 tackles, 7 sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and two passes defended in 16 games started.[27]

In the divisional round of the playoffs against the New Orleans Saints, Hunter recorded one tackle during the 29–24 win which became known as the Minneapolis Miracle.[28] In the National Football Conference (NFC) Championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Hunter recorded 5 tackles and sacked Nick Foles once during the 38–7 loss.[29]

2018

[edit]

On June 27, 2018, Hunter signed a five-year, $72 million extension with the Vikings with $40 million guaranteed and a $15 million signing bonus.[30] Hunter had a strong start to the 2018 season, recording at least one sack in each of the Vikings' first seven games, including 2 sacks against the Cardinals in Week 6.[31] In Week 9, Hunter recorded a career-high 3.5 sacks, nine tackles, and returned a fumble recovery 32 yards for a touchdown in a 24–9 win over the Lions, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week.[32] In that same game, the Vikings set a new franchise record with 10 sacks.[33] Hunter would finish the 2018 season with 72 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery for a touchdown.[31] Hunter's 14.5 sacks tied him with Von Miller for fourth most in the NFL.[34] For these efforts, Hunter was awarded his first trip to the Pro Bowl, where he recorded a sack against Andrew Luck.[35] In addition to the Pro Bowl nomination, Hunter was also named Second-team All-Pro by the Associated Press and First-team All-Pro by Sporting News and the PFWA.[36][37][38]

2019

[edit]

In Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, Hunter recorded his first sack of the season on Matt Ryan as the Vikings won 28–12.[39] In Week 14 against the Lions, he sacked David Blough 3 times in the 20–7 win, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week.[40] In the game, Hunter became the youngest player in NFL history to reach 50 sacks.[41] Hunter finished the regular season with 70 tackles, 14.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery in 16 games started.[42] On December 17, 2019, Hunter was nominated to play in his second straight Pro Bowl.[43]

In the NFC Wild Card game against the New Orleans Saints, Hunter recorded a strip sack on Drew Brees which was recovered by teammate Jalyn Holmes during the 26–20 overtime win.[44] In the divisional round against the San Francisco 49ers, Hunter sacked Jimmy Garoppolo once during the 27–10 loss.[45]

2020

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On September 9, 2020, Hunter was placed on injured reserve with a neck injury.[46] He underwent season-ending surgery to clean up a herniated disc in his neck.[47]

2021

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Hunter started off the season in a torrid pace netting 6 sacks in the first 7 games when he suffered a season ending torn pectoral muscle placing him on injured reserve for the 2nd consecutive season.

2023

[edit]

On July 30, 2023, Hunter signed a new one-year deal with the Vikings.[48]

In October, Hunter was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for his strong performance.[49]

Houston Texans

[edit]

On March 14, 2024, Hunter signed a two-year, $49 million contract with the Houston Texans.[50] He started all 17 games for Houston, posting 12.0 sacks and 46 combined tackles.

On March 19, 2025, Hunter and the Texans agreed to a one-year, $35.6 million contract extension.[51] In Week 10, Hunter recorded 3.5 sacks, seven tackles, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in a 36–29 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week.[52]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Led the league
Bold Career high

Regular season

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Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck Sfty PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2015 MIN 14 1 33 29 4 6.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2016 MIN 16 0 56 34 22 12.5 1 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 1 24 1
2017 MIN 16 16 45 27 18 7.0 0 2 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 1 0 0
2018 MIN 16 16 72 51 21 14.5 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 1 32 1
2019 MIN 16 16 70 52 18 14.5 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 3 1 4 0
2020 MIN 0 0 Did not play due to injury
2021 MIN 7 7 38 23 15 6.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2022 MIN 17 17 65 46 19 10.5 0 3 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2023 MIN 17 17 83 54 29 16.5 0 2 0 0 0.0 0 0 4 0 0 0
2024 HOU 17 17 46 31 15 12.0 0 3 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2025 HOU 10 10 31 17 14 9.0 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 2 1 0 0
Career 146 117 539 364 175 108.5 1 12 0 0 0.0 0 0 14 5 60 2

Postseason

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Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck Sfty PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2015 MIN 1 0 1 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2017 MIN 2 2 9 6 3 1.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2019 MIN 2 2 10 5 5 2.5 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2022 MIN 1 1 4 3 1 1.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2024 HOU 2 2 7 4 3 0.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Career 8 7 31 19 12 4.5 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Danielle Hunter

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Danielle Hunter is a Jamaican-American professional football for the Houston Texans of the (). Born on October 29, 1994, in , , he played at (LSU), where he appeared in 38 games with 23 starts over three seasons as a . Selected by the in the third round (88th overall) of the , Hunter has established himself as one of the league's premier pass rushers, amassing 107.0 career sacks through the 2025 season. Hunter's NFL career began with the Vikings, where he spent nine seasons from 2015 to 2023, evolving from a rotational player into a cornerstone of their defense. In his breakout 2017 season, he recorded 7.0 sacks, but his production surged in subsequent years, leading the with 14.5 sacks in 2018 and earning his first selection that year, along with Second-Team honors. He repeated as a in 2019, 2023, and 2024, and earned First-Team honors in 2019. Over his Vikings tenure, Hunter totaled 87.5 sacks, ranking fifth in franchise history, and contributed to playoff appearances, including a run in 2017. His relentless speed and bend around the edge—standing at 6 feet 5 inches and 263 pounds—made him a perennial double-digit sack threat, though he played only 7 games in 2021 with 6.0 sacks before missing the remainder of the season due to a torn pectoral muscle injury. In 2024, Hunter signed a two-year, $49 million contract with the Houston Texans as a , reuniting with former Vikings defensive coordinator and bolstering a young defense alongside players like . He quickly adapted, recording 11.5 sacks in 17 games during his debut season and earning his fifth selection (2025 Pro Bowl for the 2024 season). Entering the 2025 season on a one-year, $35.6 million extension through 2026—the second-highest for a at the time—Hunter has continued his elite play, notching 7.5 sacks through 10 games as of November 2025 while helping the Texans maintain a top-ranked defense. His career milestones include becoming the 12th-fastest player to reach 100 sacks in history (in 138 games) during the 2025 season, underscoring his status as a future Hall of Fame candidate.

Early life and high school

Childhood and family

Danielle Hunter was born on October 29, 1994, in St. Catherine, Jamaica, to Kimara Bonitto, who was 18 years old at the time of his birth. His biological father was minimally involved, with Hunter seeing him only once or twice in his life. Hunter's early childhood in was marked by challenges, as his mother left for the to pursue higher education at Monroe College in New York, aiming to secure a better future for her family. During this period, he lived with relatives, including an aunt, in a free-roaming environment that he later described as a "wild child" upbringing, involving outdoor adventures like playing , soccer, and exploring the island's rugged terrain. Bonitto later reflected on the difficult decision: "I had to leave him in , or I would have had to stay and not have the opportunity to bring him to America at all." Bonitto established her career as an and remarried Cheikh Ndiaye, who became Hunter's . At the age of eight, Hunter relocated to , to join his mother, , and half-sisters Mareme and , marking a significant transition from his Jamaican roots. Upon arriving in the United States, Hunter faced initial adjustments to a new culture and environment, but his family provided stability that introduced him to organized sports, laying the groundwork for his athletic development. This familial support, particularly from his stepfather, influenced his early interest in physical activities beyond his Jamaican play.

High school career

Danielle Hunter attended Morton Ranch High School in , where he began developing his athletic talents during his high school years. As a multi-sport , he excelled in football as a and in , particularly in sprint events that highlighted his speed and explosiveness. In football, Hunter emerged as a dominant force on the defensive line, showcasing his pass-rushing ability and physical presence. During his senior season in 2011, he recorded 30 quarterback pressures, 11 tackles for loss, four sacks, and four pass breakups, contributing significantly to the team's efforts. Over his high school career, he amassed 108 total tackles, establishing himself as one of the top defensive prospects in . Hunter's track prowess complemented his football skills, with notable performances in the 400-meter dash. This multi-sport background helped build his endurance and speed, key attributes for a . His high school performance drew widespread attention from college recruiters, earning him four-star status as a prospect. Ranked as the No. 31 player in and No. 249 nationally by , Hunter committed to (LSU) and signed his on July 20, 2011. Throughout high school, Hunter experienced significant personal and athletic growth, transitioning from a raw, effort-driven athlete to a polished recruit ready for Division I competition. His dedication to improving technique and physical conditioning during this period laid the foundation for his future success.

College career

Freshman year

Danielle Hunter joined as a true in , arriving as a highly touted recruit known for his raw athleticism and but lacking refined technique. At just 17 years old, he faced a steep adjusting to the college game's speed and complexity, particularly within LSU's aggressive 4-3 defensive scheme under coordinator . Hunter saw limited snaps on defense, primarily serving as a rotational player behind established stars like and , who anchored the Tigers' dominant front. Throughout the season, Hunter appeared in 12 of LSU's 13 games, logging most of his time on special teams units such as kickoff coverage, where he contributed to the team's coverage efforts. His defensive contributions were modest, totaling 12 tackles (three solo and nine assisted) with no tackles for loss or sacks, reflecting his role as a developmental prospect still mastering gap responsibilities and edge containment. These early experiences allowed Hunter to study the scheme's nuances, including stunts and twists, while building chemistry with the veteran defensive line. Hunter's physical development was a key focus during the 2012 season, as he worked on bulking up his lean 235-pound frame through strength and conditioning programs to better withstand SEC blockers. Emphasizing speed drills and weight-room gains, he aimed to enhance his explosive first step and power, addressing critiques of his high-pad level and underdeveloped pass-rush moves. This period of growth occurred amid a successful team campaign, as LSU finished with a 10-3 overall record and 6-2 mark in SEC play, capped by a 30-24 Bowl victory over Texas A&M. The Tigers' defense ranked among the nation's elite, allowing just 17.5 points per game (12th nationally) and 307.6 total yards per game (12th), providing Hunter a strong foundational environment for his transition.

Sophomore year

During his 2013 sophomore season, Danielle Hunter transitioned from a rotational player to a key starter for the LSU Tigers, appearing in all 13 games and starting 10 after earning the role in Week 4 against Auburn, which he never relinquished for the remainder of the year. This expanded involvement highlighted his emerging talent as a pass rusher, building on his limited freshman experience with special teams contributions. Hunter tallied 57 total tackles (19 solo, 38 assisted), 8.0 tackles for loss (for 32 yards), and 3.0 sacks (for 20 yards), while also forcing 1 , recording 5 quarterback hurries, and breaking up 2 passes. His pass rush efforts were particularly effective in SEC matchups, where he demonstrated quickness and disruption against mobile . Notable game highlights included a career-best 8 tackles (1 solo, 7 assisted) and a quarterback hurry in LSU's 35-21 win over Auburn, his first career start. Against , he made 7 tackles (1 solo, 6 assisted), 1 tackle for loss, and 2 pass breakups in a defensive battle. Hunter also contributed a sack (0.5 against TCU and Ole Miss, 1.0 against Texas A&M) and closed the season with 4 tackles and a sack for a 4-yard loss in the Outback Bowl victory over . Off the field, Hunter invested in his development by reviewing game film of his performances to refine his technique and explosiveness, laying groundwork for further improvement.

Junior year

In his junior year of 2014, Danielle Hunter solidified his role as a full-time starter on LSU's defensive line, emerging as a disruptive force with exceptional athleticism and pursuit skills. He recorded 73 total tackles, including 13 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six passes defended, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery returned for a across 13 games. These contributions made him a key component of an LSU defense that led the (SEC) in total defense (316.8 yards allowed per game) and pass defense (164.2 yards per game), while ranking second in the league in scoring defense (17.5 points per game). Hunter's standout performances came in several high-profile SEC matchups, showcasing his ability to pressure top s and disrupt plays. Against Mississippi State, he notched six tackles, one sack, and a fumble recovery for a 25-yard return, helping LSU secure a 34-29 victory over the ninth-ranked Bulldogs. In the upset win over third-ranked Ole Miss (10-7), Hunter tallied nine tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, and 0.5 sacks, including chasing Bo Wallace out of the pocket on a critical third-down play that forced a punt. He also delivered a career-high 12 tackles (seven solo) against Auburn, the most by an LSU defensive lineman in a single game since 1996, despite the 41-7 loss. Additional highlights included six tackles and three passes defended versus , and seven tackles with 1.0 tackle for loss in the season opener against . His consistent production contributed to LSU's 8-5 record, but concluded with a 28-31 loss to Notre Dame in the Music City Bowl, where he added nine tackles and 1.0 tackle for loss. Hunter's junior season elevated his draft stock within the SEC, where he ranked among the top defensive linemen for tackles for loss and was recognized preseason as the No. 32 player in the conference by Saturday Down South. Following the , he announced his decision to forgo his senior year and declare for the on January 9, 2015, becoming the third underclassman from LSU's defense to do so that cycle. His impact extended beyond individual stats, as his speed and length helped anchor a front that limited opponents' big plays and contributed to LSU's reputation as a defensive powerhouse in the SEC.

College statistics

During his three seasons at (LSU), Danielle Hunter primarily played as a in a 4-3 base defense coordinated by , which emphasized aggressive pressures and coverage against a schedule featuring potent (SEC) offenses such as those from , Auburn, and Georgia. Hunter's statistical contributions grew each year, with a focus on run disruption and pass rushing, though his sack production remained modest due to the team's depth on the defensive line and shared opportunities among edge rushers. The following table summarizes his key defensive statistics by season, including tackles, sacks, tackles for loss (TFL), forced fumbles (FF), and interceptions (INT).
YearGames PlayedTackles (Solo/Assisted)SacksTFLFFINT
Freshman (2012)1212 (3/9)0.00.000
Sophomore (2013)1357 (19/38)3.08.010
Junior (2014)1373 (30/43)1.513.010
Over his career, Hunter appeared in 38 games, accumulating 142 total tackles (52 solo, 90 assisted), 4.5 sacks, 21.0 TFL, 2 FF, and 0 INT, along with 8 pass deflections and 1 fumble return touchdown. These totals placed him outside the top ranks in LSU or SEC history for sacks or tackles, reflecting his rotational role early on and the competitive nature of the conference's defensive fronts; however, his 13.0 TFL in 2014 led the Tigers and ranked 10th in the SEC.

Professional career

Pre-draft process

At the 2015 , Danielle Hunter demonstrated exceptional athleticism for his position, recording a time of 4.57 seconds—the fastest among defensive linemen—25 repetitions of 225 pounds on the , and a of 36.5 inches. These metrics highlighted his speed and explosiveness, though scouts noted his relatively low college sack production of 4.5 over three seasons at LSU as a concern for his pass-rushing potential. During LSU's pro day on March 27, 2015, Hunter opted to rely on his combine figures for the and but participated in other drills, achieving a 36.5-inch that led the group and impressing scouts with his pass-drop footwork after an initially slow start. He conducted interviews and pre-draft visits with multiple teams, including the , where evaluators focused on his raw traits despite questions about his limited production. The , in particular, valued his performance at pro day, which helped solidify their interest. Hunter entered the draft projected as a third-round prospect, prized for his 6-foot-5 frame, long arms, and elite athleticism but tempered by his inconsistent college tape and need for technical refinement. The Minnesota Vikings selected him in the third round, 88th overall, on May 1, 2015, viewing him as a high-upside addition to their defensive line.

Minnesota Vikings

Danielle Hunter was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round, 88th overall, of the out of . As the youngest player in the league at 20 years old during his season, Hunter signed a standard four-year contract worth $2.91 million, including a $711,992 . He quickly emerged as a promising , recording 2.5 sacks in limited action as a rotational player in 2015 before breaking out in subsequent years. Over his nine seasons with the Vikings from 2015 to 2023, Hunter established himself as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers, amassing 87.5 sacks, 462 combined tackles, 108 tackles for loss, and 11 forced fumbles in 125 games (90 starts). His production peaked after transitioning to a full-time starter in 2017, where he averaged over 10 sacks per season in his prime years, including a franchise-record 14.5 sacks in 2018. Hunter earned four Pro Bowl selections (2018, 2019, 2022, 2023) and All-Pro honors, including First-Team selections in 2019 and 2023, and Second-Team in 2018, becoming the youngest player in NFL history to reach 50 career sacks at age 25 in 2019. On June 27, 2018, he signed a five-year, $72 million contract extension with $40 million guaranteed, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Vikings' defense. In March 2022, Hunter agreed to a contract restructure converting his $18 million roster bonus into a signing bonus, freeing up cap space without a holdout. Hunter's tenure was not without challenges, including a that caused him to miss the entire 2020 season and limited him to seven games in 2021. He rebounded strongly in 2023 with 10.5 sacks, leading to another one-year restructure worth up to $20 million, including $17 million guaranteed, to remain with the team. Following the 2023 season, Hunter became an unrestricted and departed , signing with the Texans in March 2024.

2015 season

Danielle Hunter, selected by the Minnesota in the third round of the , earned a spot on the team's 53-man roster following training camp and made his debut in Week 1 against the on , where he recorded one solo tackle in 18 defensive snaps. As a raw prospect with limited college production, Hunter initially saw limited action in the ' defensive rotation, primarily on passing downs, while adjusting to the increased speed and physicality of competition under defensive coordinator George Edwards' 4-3 scheme, which emphasized versatile edge rushers capable of setting the edge against the run and generating pressure. Hunter's role expanded as the season progressed, particularly after veteran Everson Griffen dealt with minor injuries, allowing the rookie to contribute in key games; his first career sack came in Week 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs on October 18, where he split a sack with Linval Joseph and forced a fumble, finishing with four tackles in 50 snaps. He recorded his first full sack the following month against Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler on November 1, and went on to notch additional sacks against the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants, often rotating with starters Brian Robison and Griffen to provide fresh pass-rush legs. Over 14 games with one start, Hunter tallied 33 tackles (29 solo), 6.0 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, and 1 forced fumble, ranking second on the team in sacks behind Griffen's 10.5 and demonstrating his explosive athleticism—highlighted by his NFL Combine-leading 4.57-second 40-yard dash among defensive linemen—in a scheme that suited his 6-foot-5 frame and long arms for disrupting quarterbacks. Hunter's strong performance earned him a selection to the (PFWA) All-Rookie Team, joining teammates and as one of three rookies from the 2015 draft class recognized for their contributions to a defense that ranked sixth in the in points allowed (18.9 per game).

2016 season

In his second season, Danielle Hunter transitioned from a rotational pass rusher to a prominent member of the ' defensive line, playing in all 16 games and logging 600 defensive snaps, which accounted for nearly 58% of the team's total defensive plays. This increased role allowed him to showcase his athleticism and speed off the edge, contributing significantly to the ' defensive efforts amid a season marked by offensive struggles following an injury to . Hunter recorded 56 total tackles (34 solo), 12.5 sacks, and 1 forced during the , with his sack total leading the team and ranking third in the . He also notched a and returned a forced 24 yards for a in Week 1 against the , providing an early highlight in a 25-16 victory. His 12.5 sacks were bolstered by 68 pressures, the most among edge rushers that year. Among his standout performances, Hunter achieved multi-sack games against the (2.0 sacks on November 20) and (2.0 sacks on December 1), both pivotal in keeping the competitive. Against opponents, he registered sacks in matchups with the (1.0 in Week 5 and 1.0 in Week 17) and (1.0 in Week 12), helping to secure key divisional points in a tight race. These efforts underscored his growing impact as a disruptive force opposite . Hunter's production was integral to the ' defensive unit, which ranked among the league's best early in the season before a late slump contributed to an 8-8 finish and missing the . His double-digit sacks provided consistent pressure that supported the team's push for postseason contention, even as injuries and inconsistencies elsewhere hampered overall success.

2017 season

In 2017, Danielle Hunter solidified his role as a cornerstone of the Vikings' defensive line, starting all 16 regular-season games and contributing to the team's league-leading total defense that allowed just 275.9 yards per game. Building on the momentum from his breakout campaign, Hunter recorded 7.0 sacks, 45 combined tackles (27 solo), 12 tackles for loss, and 11 hits, demonstrating his explosive pass-rushing ability opposite . His consistent pressure on quarterbacks helped anchor a unit that ranked first in scoring defense (16.8 allowed), earning him recognition as one of the NFL's emerging elite edge rushers. Hunter's impact extended into the postseason, where the secured the NFC's top seed with a 13-3 record and advanced to the . In the Divisional Round victory over the , he notched his lone playoff sack of the season on , along with 5 combined tackles and 2 tackles for loss, helping limit the to 247 total yards in a 29-24 win. Despite a 38-7 loss to the in the , Hunter added 4 tackles and a quarterback hit, finishing the postseason with 9 combined tackles, 1 sack, and 2 tackles for loss over two games. His steady presence bolstered the ' defensive front during their deepest playoff run since 2009, underscoring his growing reputation as a reliable and disruptive force.

2018 season

In 2018, Danielle Hunter enjoyed a breakout season with the Minnesota Vikings, fully recovered from a injury that had limited him the previous year. He started all 16 games, recording career highs of 14.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss, along with 72 total tackles (51 solo). These figures ranked him among the NFL's elite pass rushers, as his sack total tied for fourth league-wide. One of Hunter's signature performances came in Week 9 against the , where he amassed 3.5 sacks—part of the ' franchise-record 10 sacks in the game—and returned a 32 yards for a in the fourth quarter. This multi-faceted effort helped secure a 24-9 victory and earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Hunter's disruptive play extended across the season, with at least one sack in seven of the ' first eight games, showcasing his speed and power off the edge. Hunter's dominance culminated in his first selection and Second-Team honors from the . His contributions were integral to the ' defense, which ranked fourth in the in points allowed (21.3 per game) and seventh in total yards permitted (314.0 per game), forming a cornerstone of Minnesota's 8-7-1 regular-season finish.

2019 season

In 2019, Danielle Hunter built on his breakout 2018 campaign by delivering another dominant season as a pass rusher for the Minnesota Vikings, starting all 16 games and leading the team with 14.5 sacks while recording 70 total tackles (49 solo), three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He generated consistent quarterback pressure, finishing second in the NFL with 36 pressures according to , which underscored his relentless pursuit and helped disrupt opposing offenses throughout the year. His performance earned him a second consecutive selection and First-Team honors from the , recognizing his status as one of the league's premier edge defenders. Hunter's impact was particularly evident in key matchups against division foes, where his sacks and pressures played a pivotal role in playoff positioning. In Week 5, he notched a career-high three sacks against the in a 42-30 victory, contributing to Minnesota's strong divisional standing. He replicated the feat in Week 10 with three sacks in a 23-20 win over the , further bolstering the team's 10-6 record and wild card berth. These efforts highlighted his ability to elevate the ' defense in high-stakes games with direct implications for postseason qualification. In the playoffs, Hunter recorded 2.5 sacks across two games, including a strip sack on late in the fourth quarter of the wild card upset victory over the (26-20 in overtime), which preserved Minnesota's lead and forced extra time. However, the ' season ended with a 27-10 divisional round loss to the , where Hunter added one sack but the defense was held to limited production overall. Off the field, Hunter secured his future with the team by signing a five-year, $72 million contract extension on July 15, 2019, making him one of the highest-paid defensive ends in the at the time.

2020 season

Despite the 2020 NFL season being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in a shortened offseason and abbreviated training camp, Danielle Hunter did not appear in any games for the Minnesota Vikings due to a severe neck injury. Hunter initially sustained the injury in mid-August 2020, described by head coach Mike Zimmer as a minor "tweak" from sleeping awkwardly, but an MRI during training camp revealed a more serious issue involving a herniated disc in his neck. On September 9, 2020, just before the season opener, the Vikings placed him on injured reserve, making him ineligible for at least the first three games. Although he was eligible to return as early as Week 5, Hunter underwent season-ending surgery to address the herniated disc later that month, as confirmed by Zimmer on October 28, 2020. The procedure was successful, with full recovery anticipated by the start of the 2021 offseason program. With Hunter sidelined for all 16 games, his season statistics were zero across all categories, including sacks, tackles, and starts. As a two-time selection and the ' premier pass rusher entering the year with 54.5 career sacks, his absence compounded existing challenges for Minnesota's defense. The Vikings' defensive unit faced broader turmoil in 2020, exacerbated by Hunter's injury alongside opt-outs from defensive lineman Michael Pierce due to concerns and limited participation from linebacker Anthony Barr, also influenced by pandemic protocols. Without these key contributors, including three Pro Bowlers unavailable before Week 1, the defense ranked 28th in points allowed (27.0 per game) and struggled with effectiveness, recording only 34 sacks as a team—well below their 2019 total of 50. Linebacker acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Hunter's unique speed and productivity, noting the team would need to rely on depth players like Ifeadi and to step up. The unit's woes contributed to a 7-9 record and an early playoff exit, highlighting Hunter's critical role in the ' defensive identity.

2021 season

Danielle Hunter began the 2021 season with the Minnesota Vikings, starting all seven games he appeared in before a severe injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year. In those contests, he tallied 38 total tackles (23 solo), six sacks, six tackles for loss, and 10 hits, providing a solid but diminished output compared to his prior double-digit sack campaigns in and 2019. The season took a turn during the Week 8 matchup against the on October 31, when Hunter suffered a torn right pectoral muscle in the second quarter after playing just 27 snaps. An MRI confirmed the injury the following day, and head coach announced that Hunter would miss the rest of the season, marking the second consecutive year his campaign was derailed by a major injury following his 2020 neck surgery. The team placed him on injured reserve on November 2, effectively ending his participation after a promising start that had seen him restructure his contract earlier in the offseason to remain with the . Hunter's absence severely hampered the Vikings' pass rush, which had relied heavily on his explosive edge presence; the unit managed only 34 additional sacks over the final 10 games without him, a drop-off from the 52 total sacks posted in 2019. To compensate, the defense leaned more on veteran , who stepped up with six sacks of his own, alongside increased roles for players like and , though the overall pressure rate declined noticeably in Hunter's absence. This adjustment contributed to broader struggles for Minnesota's defense, which ranked 20th in sacks for the season despite early promise.

2023 contract holdout

In early 2023, Danielle Hunter held out from the Minnesota Vikings' offseason activities and mandatory minicamp amid dissatisfaction with his contract value relative to market rates for elite pass rushers. His previous five-year, $72 million extension from 2018 had been restructured in prior years, but ongoing negotiations led to limited participation until a resolution. On July 30, 2023, Hunter signed a one-year deal worth up to $20 million, including $17 million guaranteed, ending the holdout and allowing him to report for . This agreement resolved tensions and enabled his full integration into team preparations under the new defensive scheme. His injury history, including missing 2020 and much of 2021, had influenced earlier talks but did not prevent the 2023 deal. Throughout the offseason, Hunter focused on training and conditioning to maintain his pass-rushing prowess. The stability from the deal supported the Vikings' defense, with Hunter contributing to 42 team sacks in 2023, though the unit ranked mid-pack in pressure rates.

2023 season

Danielle Hunter delivered a dominant performance throughout the 2023 regular season, appearing in all 17 games and starting each one while posting career highs in several key categories. He recorded 83 total tackles (54 solo, 29 assisted), 16.5 sacks—which led the NFL—and 23 tackles for loss, along with four forced fumbles and two passes defensed. His sack total marked a significant resurgence, as he generated pressure on 86 occasions according to Next Gen Stats, ranking fourth league-wide behind only Micah Parsons, Josh Allen, and Nick Bosa. In October 2023, Hunter's impact was particularly pronounced, as he contributed to the ' 4-1 record that month with 18 tackles, five sacks, five tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and one pass defensed. For these efforts, he earned NFC Defensive Player of the Month honors from the . His outstanding season culminated in a selection—his fourth overall—and First-Team recognition by the .

Houston Texans

On March 12, 2024, Danielle Hunter signed a two-year, $49 million contract (up to $51 million) with the Houston Texans as an unrestricted free agent, including $48 million guaranteed, marking the end of his nine-year tenure with the Minnesota Vikings. The deal positioned Hunter as a key addition to the Texans' defensive line, where he was expected to pair with young edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. to bolster the team's pass rush. Hunter's arrival brought veteran experience and elite speed off the edge, helping to transform Houston's defense into one of the league's more disruptive units. In his debut season with the Texans, Hunter quickly integrated into the defensive scheme under coordinator , starting all 17 games and providing consistent pressure on quarterbacks. His performance earned him his fifth overall selection (third consecutive) and recognition as a foundational piece of the Texans' improved front, with Hunter mentoring Anderson and contributing to a defense that ranked among the top in sacks and disruptions. Following a strong 2024 campaign, Hunter agreed to a one-year contract extension on March 19, 2025, worth $35.6 million, which extended his stay through the 2026 season and made him the NFL's second-highest paid at an average annual value of $27.55 million. This extension reflected his ongoing impact, as Hunter continued to excel in 2025, earning a No. 25 ranking on the Players list for his blend of production and leadership.

2024 season

Following a resurgent 2023 season with the Minnesota Vikings in which he recorded 16.5 sacks, Hunter entered free agency and signed a two-year, $49 million contract (up to $51 million) with the Houston Texans on March 12, 2024, including $48 million guaranteed. This deal marked his transition to a new team under head coach , where he was expected to complement the young defensive talent on the roster. In his first season with the Texans, Hunter started all 17 regular-season games, registering 46 total tackles (31 solo), 12.0 sacks, three passes defended, and one forced fumble. Paired with second-year , who tallied 10.5 sacks, the duo combined for 22.5 sacks—the most of any edge-rushing tandem in the —and generated significant pressure on opposing quarterbacks, helping the Texans' defense rank among the league's top units in sacks and disruptions. Their partnership bolstered Houston's pass rush, contributing to the team's 10-7 record and first-place finish in the . Hunter's impact extended into the , where the Texans earned a wild-card berth. In the postseason, he appeared in two games, recording seven total tackles (four solo) with no sacks or turnovers forced. Houston defeated the 32-12 in the wild-card round, advancing to the divisional for the second straight year, before falling 23-14 to the .

2025 season

In the second week of the 2025 NFL season, on September 15 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Hunter sacked quarterback Baker Mayfield for his 100th career sack, becoming the 67th player in league history to reach the milestone. That game marked a standout performance for Hunter, who finished with two sacks, five total tackles, and five quarterback hits, contributing to a 27-20 Texans victory. Through the first ten games of the 2025 season (as of November 15), Hunter has recorded 7.5 sacks, 16 solo tackles (27 combined), and 2 forced fumbles while starting all contests. According to (PFF), he has generated over 50 pressures, maintaining elite pass-rush efficiency. His pass-rushing has been notable in key matchups, including a sack and two pressures against the in Week 6, and a career-high-tying 3.5 sacks with a forced fumble in Week 9 against the on November 9, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Off the field, Hunter faced personal challenges in late October 2025 when Hurricane Melissa made landfall in , his country of birth, causing widespread destruction and communication blackouts. With several family members still residing there, Hunter publicly expressed concern over their safety amid reports of flooding, landslides, and power outages across the island. Hunter's contributions have significantly bolstered the Houston Texans' defensive front, forming a dynamic duo with Will Anderson Jr. that has elevated the unit's pass-rush effectiveness. His consistent pressure generation has helped limit opposing quarterbacks' time, supporting the team's competitive position in the AFC.

Awards and honors

Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections

Danielle Hunter has earned five selections during his NFL career, recognizing his consistent excellence as a pass rusher. His initial selections came in 2018 and 2019 while with the Vikings, followed by additional honors in 2022 and 2023, also with Minnesota. In 2024, after signing with the Houston Texans, Hunter was added as a replacement to the 2025 roster in January 2025 for his performance that season. Despite leading the Houston Texans with 15 sacks and the NFL in quarterback pressures during the 2025 season, Hunter was not selected for the 2026 Pro Bowl roster, even as an alternate, prompting widespread discussion of a snub. Fans and former player J. J. Watt praised Hunter for his Hall of Fame-level statistics and consistent dominance, with Watt calling Hunter the most underrated player in the league and the exclusion "asinine." Fans expressed support for Hunter in social media discussions, comparing his performance and defensive impact with the Minnesota Vikings and Houston Texans to that of J.J. Watt and T.J. Watt. Hunter's All-Pro honors include first-team selections by the (PFWA) in both 2018 and 2019. In 2018, he also received second-team All-Pro recognition from the . These accolades highlight his dominant play during those seasons, where he recorded double-digit sacks and disrupted opposing offenses effectively. Additionally, Hunter was named to the PFWA All-NFC Team in 2018, 2019, and 2023, further affirming his status among the conference's top defensive ends. These conference-specific honors complemented his broader recognitions and underscored his impact within the NFC. These and selections have solidified Hunter's reputation as one of the league's elite pass rushers, with executives and scouts ranking him among the top 10 at his position entering the 2025 season due to his blend of speed, power, and production. His honors reflect a career marked by sustained high-level performance, including leading the in pressures in multiple seasons, which has elevated his standing in player rankings and free agency value.

Player of the month and week awards

Danielle Hunter earned the NFC Defensive Player of the Week award twice early in his career, both times for dominant performances against the Detroit Lions. In Week 9 of the 2018 season, Hunter recorded 3.5 sacks, three tackles for loss, and a 32-yard fumble return for a touchdown in a 24-9 victory, contributing to a Vikings defense that set a franchise record with 10 sacks in the game. His performance helped Minnesota improve to 6-2-1 and earned him recognition as the top defensive player in the conference for that week. Hunter repeated the feat in Week 14 of the 2019 season, notching three sacks against the Lions in a 20-7 win, which marked his 50th career sack and made him the youngest player in NFL history to reach that milestone at age 25. These efforts highlighted his explosive pass-rushing ability, as he finished both games with multiple quarterback pressures and disruptions on Detroit's offense. Hunter's most prominent monthly honor came later, when he was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for 2023. During that span, he amassed five sacks, five tackles for loss, 18 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and one pass defensed across five games, anchoring a defense that led the with seven forced fumbles and ranked third in yards allowed per game (287). His contributions were pivotal in Minnesota's 4-1 record that month, including multi-sack games against the (two sacks on October 15) and key pressures in wins over the and . This award underscored Hunter's resurgence following a contract holdout, as he terrorized quarterbacks with his speed and power off the edge. In Week 10 of the 2025 , Hunter was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the on November 10, 2025, where he recorded seven tackles (five solo), 3.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in a 36-29 victory. This marked his third career Defensive Player of the Week award.

Other recognitions

In 2015, Hunter was named to the Pro Football Writers of America's All-Rookie Team following a standout debut with the Minnesota Vikings, where he recorded 2.5 sacks and contributed significantly on defense. Hunter received additional media recognition in 2019 when he was selected to the Pro Football Writers of America's All-NFL Team after leading the Vikings with 14.5 sacks. For his 2019 performance, Hunter garnered one vote in the NFL Defensive Player of the Year balloting. In 2025, Hunter was voted 25th overall on the Players list by his fellow players, highlighting his impact with the Texans. That year, Hunter reached a major career milestone by recording his 100th sack, joining an elite group as the 41st player in league history to achieve the feat.

NFL career statistics

Regular season

Danielle Hunter's regular season statistics, spanning his career from 2015 to 2025, highlight his productivity as a , particularly in generating sacks and tackles for loss.
YearTeamGGSCombSoloAstSkIntFFPD
2015MIN141332946.0010
2016MIN16056342212.5011
2017MIN16164527187.0012
2018MIN161672512114.5000
2019MIN161670521814.5030
2020MIN151342251710.5021
2021MIN000000.0000
2022MIN171765461910.5013
2023MIN171783542916.5042
2024HOU171746311511.5013
2025HOU992716117.5021
Career totals through the 2025 season (as of November 15, 2025) show Hunter accumulating 159 games played with 128 starts, 585 combined tackles (396 solo, 189 assisted), 114.5 sacks, 0 interceptions, 15 forced fumbles, and 13 passes defended. His sack production peaked in 2016 (12.5), 2018 (14.5), and 2023 (16.5), reflecting his explosive pass-rushing ability during those campaigns.

Postseason

Danielle Hunter has appeared in eight postseason games across his career, primarily with the from 2015 to 2022 and then with the Houston Texans in 2024, recording 4.5 sacks and contributing to three playoff victories. His postseason debut came in the 2015 NFC Wild Card round, where the defeated the 10–9 on January 10, 2016; Hunter registered one solo tackle in limited action during the defensive struggle that advanced . In the 2017 playoffs, following a 13–3 regular season, Hunter started both games for the , who reached the NFC . He recorded three tackles and one hit in the divisional round win over the (29–24 OT on January 14, 2018), but managed six tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and one hit in the 38–7 loss to the on January 21, 2018, ending 's run. The 2019 postseason marked Hunter's most productive playoff stretch, as the Vikings won their Wild Card game before falling in the divisional round. Against the on January 5, 2020, he notched five combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, one pass defended, one forced fumble, and three quarterback hits in the 26–20 OT victory, helping Minnesota overcome a 20–0 deficit in the " II." In the subsequent divisional loss to the (27–10 on January 11, 2020), Hunter added five tackles and one quarterback hit. In the 2022 Wild Card round, the ' season ended with a 31–24 upset loss to the on January 15, 2023; Hunter started and recorded four tackles, including three solo stops, one sack, one tackle for loss, and two hits in the defeat. Transitioning to the Texans in 2024, Hunter played in two playoff games after secured a Wild Card spot. He contributed three tackles and one hit in the 32–12 divisional win over the on January 11, 2025, but had four tackles and two hits in the subsequent loss, ending the Texans' postseason.
YearTeamGamesStartsComb. TacklesSoloAst.SacksTFLQB HitsPDFF
2015MIN101100.00000
MIN229631.02200
2019MIN2210552.51511
2022MIN114311.01200
HOU227430.00300
Career-873119124.541211
Hunter's career postseason totals reflect a solid but not dominant impact, with his 4.5 sacks ranking him among Minnesota's key contributors in their and deep runs, where his pressure helped force turnovers and extend drives in high-stakes wins. In Houston's advancement to the divisional round, his run defense stabilized the front, though lacking sacks, underscoring his versatility in playoff settings despite the teams' mixed success.

Personal life

Family background

Danielle Hunter was born on October 29, 1994, in , , and maintains strong ties to his Jamaican heritage, with extended family members still residing on the island. His mother, Kimara Bonitto, a Jamaican native who works as an and as of was pursuing a , raised him during his early years there before relocating the family to the when he was eight years old. Bonitto has two daughters from a later relationship, Mareme and , who are Hunter's half-sisters. Hunter's stepfather, Cheikh Ndiaye, has been a significant figure in his life since the family's move to . There are no publicly available details regarding Hunter's or children. His provided essential emotional support during key career transitions, including his recovery from a neck injury suffered at the end of the 2020 season that caused him to miss the entire 2021 season, as well as his return to in 2024 to join the Texans, allowing him to play closer to home. In late October 2025, following the catastrophic impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa on , which caused widespread destruction and disrupted communications, Hunter voiced deep concern for his relatives on the island, highlighting the personal toll of the disaster on his family.

Interests and philanthropy

Danielle Hunter maintains a passion for motorsports, frequently engaging in car activities off the field. He owns a high-performance and has spent time at racing tracks, including a full day at a , facility honing his skills alongside teammates like . Hunter is an avid world traveler, drawing inspiration from global destinations to balance his professional demands. His trips have included , , , and —his favorite for its organization and unique amenities like heated toilet seats—often shared with fellow players such as and Anthony Barr. He maintains strong ties to , his birthplace, where he visits family and finds travel experiences reminiscent of his early years there before moving to at age eight. In philanthropy, Hunter focuses on youth development and community support, particularly through organizations aiding children. He has been a consistent advocate for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, participating in their initiatives via the NFL's My Cause, My Cleats campaign and dedicating time to events in the to promote enrichment. In 2018, he donated $54,000 to his , Morton Ranch High School in , to equip the football team with new Nike uniforms, enhancing resources for young athletes. Additionally, Hunter co-chaired the Grant Halliburton Foundation's 15th Annual Hope Party in 2024, helping raise a record $570,000 to support and resources for and families, including LGBTQ+ initiatives. He has also contributed to broader relief efforts, such as donating proceeds from EA Sports video game challenges to local hospitals during the . Hunter's personal brand extends to select media engagements and endorsements that align with his low-key . He has appeared in feature segments, such as a KARE 11 video showcasing his enthusiasm, and maintains partnerships with brands like , Verizon, and Hyundai. These opportunities complement his commitment to privacy while supporting causes close to him. Hunter balances his professional career with family priorities, viewing his earnings as a means to secure his loved ones' future across generations, which motivates his philanthropic focus on youth opportunities.

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  51. https://www.profootballwriters.org/2016/01/19/rams-gurley-pfwa-rookieoffensive-rookie-of-the-year-chiefs-peters-defensive-rookie-of-the-year-2015-all-rookie-team-named/
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  58. https://www.vikings.com/news/regular-season-recap-vikings-post-historic-13-3-record-20188914
  59. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-s-monster-performance-includes-3-5-sacks-defensive-td
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  62. https://www.nfl.com/players/danielle-hunter/stats
  63. https://www.pff.com/news/pro-pffs-top-25-nfl-players-under-25-for-2019
  64. https://www.houstontexans.com/team/players-roster/danielle-hunter/
  65. https://www.nfl.com/news/vikings-upset-saints-in-nfc-wild-card-ot-nailbiter-0ap3000001094615
  66. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-injury-neck-surgery-2020-nfl-season
  67. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29846918/minnesota-vikings-place-pro-bowl-de-danielle-hunter-injured-reserve
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  71. https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevesilverman/2021/05/23/vikings-looking-for-improvement-after-woeful-defensive-performance-in-2020/
  72. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01/gamelog/2021
  73. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-injury-pec-out-2021-season
  74. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32526358/source-minnesota-vikings-de-danielle-hunter-feared-torn-pectoral-muscle
  75. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-ir-injured-reserve-2021-injury
  76. https://vikingsterritory.com/2021/general-news/report-danielle-hunter-to-miss-remainder-of-season
  77. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-michael-pierce-2021-defensive-line
  78. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38100478/vikings-danielle-hunter-reach-new-deal-worth-20m-source-confirms
  79. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-jordan-addison-players-of-the-month-october-2023
  80. https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-2023-nfl-pro-bowl-games
  81. https://www.profootballwriters.org/2024/01/22/pfwa-2023-all-nfl-all-afc-and-all-nfc-teams-announced/
  82. https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/16812/danielle-hunter
  83. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44321703/source-hunter-texans-agree-1-year-356m-extension
  84. https://www.nfl.com/players/danielle-hunter/stats/
  85. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39717947/source-texans-add-star-pass-rusher-danielle-hunter-49m-deal
  86. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43118547/houston-texans-pass-rushers-havoc-danielle-hunter-anderson
  87. https://www.nfl.com/news/chargers-texans-on-wild-card-saturday-what-we-learned-from-houston-s-win
  88. https://www.nfl.com/news/texans-chiefs-on-divisional-round-saturday-what-we-learned-in-kansas-city-s-23-14-win
  89. https://www.houstontexans.com/news/danielle-hunter-joins-exclusive-100-sack-club
  90. https://texanswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/texans/2025/09/15/nfl-highlights-houston-texans-danielle-hunter-records-100th-career-sack/86172860007/
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  124. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAjq9mIpZvI
  125. https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/danielle-hunter-net-worth
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