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{{Short description|Jamaican-born American football player (born 1994)}}
{{Distinguish|Daniel Hunter (disambiguation){{!}}Daniel Hunter}}
{{Distinguish|Daniel Hunter (disambiguation){{!}}Daniel Hunter}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox NFL player
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2019}}
| name = Danielle Hunter
{{Infobox NFL biography
| image =
| image_size =
| name = Danielle Hunter
| alt =
| image = Danielle Hunter.JPG
| caption =
| image_size = 200px
| currentteam = Minnesota Vikings
| alt =
| caption = Hunter with the Minnesota Vikings in 2015
| currentnumber = 99
| current_team = Houston Texans
| currentpositionplain= [[Defensive End]]
| number = 55
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1994|10|29}}
| birth_place = [[St. Catherine, Jamaica]]
| position = [[Defensive end]]
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1994|10|29}}
| death_date =
| birth_place = [[St. Catherine, Jamaica]]
| death_place =
| height_ft = 6
| death_date =
| height_in = 5
| death_place =
| weight_lbs = 257
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 5
| highschool = [[Morton Ranch High School|Katy (TX) Morton Ranch]]
| weight_lbs = 263
| college = [[LSU Tigers football|Louisiana State]]
| high_school = [[Morton Ranch High School|Morton Ranch]] ([[Katy, Texas]])
| draftyear = 2015
| college = [[LSU Tigers football|LSU]] (2012–2014)
| draftround = 3
| draftpick = 88
| draftyear = 2015
| debutyear =
| draftround = 3
| debutteam =
| draftpick = 88
| pastteams =
| pastteams =
* [[Minnesota Vikings]] ({{NFL Year|2015}}–present)
* [[Minnesota Vikings]] ({{NFL Year|2015|2023}})
* [[Houston Texans]] ({{NFL Year|2024}}–present)
| status = Active
| highlights =
| status = Active
| highlights =
| nflnew = daniellehunter/2552603
* Second-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2018 All-Pro Team|2018]])
* 4× [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2019 Pro Bowl|2018]], [[2020 Pro Bowl|2019]], [[2023 Pro Bowl Games|2022]], [[2024 Pro Bowl Games|2023]])
* [[PFWA All-Rookie Team]] ([[PFWA All-Rookie Team#2015|2015]])
| statweek = 15
| statseason = 2024
| statlabel1 = [[Tackle (football move)#Gridiron football|Total tackles]]
| statvalue1 = 504
| statlabel2 = [[Quarterback sack|Sacks]]
| statvalue2 = 99.5
| statlabel3 = Forced [[fumble]]s
| statvalue3 = 12
| statlabel4 = Fumble recoveries
| statvalue4 = 4
| statlabel5 = [[Pass deflected|Pass deflections]]
| statvalue5 = 11
| statlabel6 = Defensive [[touchdown]]s
| statvalue6 = 2
| pfr = H/HuntDa01
}}
}}


'''Danielle Hunter''' ({{respell|də|NEEL|'}};{{needs IPA|date=May 2015}} born October 29, 1994) is an [[American football]] [[defensive end]]. He played [[college football]] at [[LSU Tigers football|LSU]]. He was drafted in the third round, 88th overall by the [[Minnesota Vikings]] in the [[2015 NFL Draft]].
'''Danielle Hunter''' ({{IPAc-en|d|ə|ˈ|n|iː|l}} {{respell|də|NEEL}}; born October 29, 1994) is a Jamaican-American professional [[American football|football]] [[defensive end]] for the [[Houston Texans]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] for the [[LSU Tigers football|LSU Tigers]] and was selected by the [[Minnesota Vikings]] in the third round of the [[2015 NFL draft]]. Hunter made four [[Pro Bowl]]s with the Vikings prior to signing with the Texans in 2024.


==Early years==
==Early life==
Hunter attended [[Morton Ranch High School]] in [[Katy, Texas]], where he was a two-sport star in football and track. He led his [[high school football|football]] team to their first Class 5A State Playoffs appearance. He tallied 63 tackles and seven [[quarterback sack|sacks]] in his junior season. As a senior, he recorded 30 quarterback pressures, 11 tackles for losses, four sacks and four pass breakups, while also catching four passes for 63 yards and a score. He had 108 total [[tackle (football move)|tackles]] during his high school career.<ref>http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205371934</ref>
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 [[high school football|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 [[Tackle (football move)#Gridiron football|tackles]] and seven [[quarterback sack|sacks]] in his junior season. As a senior, he recorded 30 [[quarterback]] pressures, 11 [[tackles for loss]]es, four sacks and four [[pass breakup]]s 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 (Houston, Texas)|Lamar High School]], he was credited with 16 stops. During his high school career, Hunter compiled 108 total [[tackle (football move)|tackles]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=205371934 |title=Danielle Hunter Bio |website=LSUsports.net |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02 |archive-date=November 2, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102155238/http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=205371934 |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref>


In [[track & field]], Hunter competed in both sprinting and jumping events. At the 2011 District Meet, he 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.<ref>http://tx.milesplit.com/meets/91888/results/155141</ref>
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.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://tx.milesplit.com/meets/91888-district-19-5a-meet/results/155141/raw |title=District 19-5A Meet - Results (FAT) (Raw) |website=Texas MileSplit |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref>


Regarded as a four-star recruit by [[Rivals.com]], Hunter was rated as the No. 37 prospect in the state of [[Texas]].<ref>[https://sports.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Danielle-Hunter-119658 Rivals.com]</ref> He was also ranked as the 14th best defensive end by [[Scout.com]], 21st by Rivals.com and 34th by [[ESPN.com]].
Regarded as a four-star recruit by [[Rivals.com]], Hunter was rated as the No. 37 prospect in the state of [[Texas]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Danielle-Hunter-119658 |title=Rivals.com biography |website=n.rivals.com |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref> He was also ranked as the 14th best defensive end by [[Scout.com]], 21st by Rivals.com and 34th by [[ESPN.com]].


==College career==
==College career==
Hunter attended [[Louisiana State University]] from 2012 to 2014, where he was a two-year starter at [[defensive end]] for the [[Louisiana State Tigers football|Tigers]].
As a true freshman at [[Louisiana State University]] (LSU) in 2012, Hunter played in 12 games, recording 12 tackles. As a sophomore in 2013, he started 10 of 13 games, recording 57 tackles and three [[Quarterback sack|sacks]].<ref>[http://theadvocate.com/sports/10004398-123/a-name-to-learn-for Danielle Hunter a name to know for your fantasy team]</ref><ref>[http://espn.go.com/blog/colleges/lsu/post/_/id/13273/spring-prediction-hunters-rush-improves Spring prediction: Hunter's rush improves]</ref><ref>[http://collegefootball.ap.org/article/no-13-lsu-expects-big-jump-de-hunter No. 13 LSU expects big jump from DE Hunter]</ref> Hunter returned as a starter his junior year in 2014.<ref>[http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2014/10/danielle_hunter_emerging_as_do.html Danielle Hunter is emerging as a dominant defender at the right time for LSU]</ref><ref>[http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2013/10/lsus_danielle_hunter_let_his_i.html LSU's Danielle Hunter let his instincts take over against Florida]</ref> He had 73 tackles and 1.5 sacks.


===Freshman===
After his junior season, Hunter entered the [[2015 NFL Draft]].<ref>[http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2015/01/lsu_de_danielle_hunter_opts_fo.html LSU DE Danielle Hunter says he will enter the 2015 NFL Draft]</ref>
{{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 (gridiron football)|kickoff]] coverage. He was active in every game with the exception of the [[2012 South Carolina Gamecocks football|South Carolina]] game in October 13. He had a season-high three tackles in a win over [[2012 Idaho Vandals football team|Idaho]] on September 15.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2012-09-15-louisiana-state.html |title=Idaho at LSU Box Score, September 15, 2012 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref> Hunter ended his first year with 12 tackles, including three solo.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/danielle-hunter-1/gamelog/2012 |title=Danielle Hunter 2012 Game Log |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref>

===Sophomore===
{{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 [[2013 Auburn Tigers football|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.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2013-09-21-louisiana-state.html |title=Auburn at LSU Box Score, September 21, 2013 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref> He had an outstanding all-around game in a win over [[2013 Florida Gators football|Florida]] with seven tackles, one tackle for loss and two pass breakups.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2013-10-12-louisiana-state.html |title=Florida at LSU Box Score, October 12, 2013 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref> He closed the year with four tackles, including a sack for a 4-yard loss, in the win over [[2013 Iowa Hawkeyes football team|Iowa]] in the [[2014 Outback Bowl]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2014-01-01-louisiana-state.html |title=Outback Bowl - Iowa vs LSU Box Score, January 1, 2014 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref> Hunter finished the season with 57 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, five quarterback hurries and a pair of pass breaksups.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_3628f942-e82f-5759-8916-151f62d9f066.html |title=Rabalais: Danielle Hunter a name to know for your fantasy team |last=Rabalais |first=Scott |website=The Advocate |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/colleges/lsu/post/_/id/13273 |title=Spring prediction: Hunter's rush improves |date=2014-03-07 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-02}}</ref><ref>[http://collegefootball.ap.org/article/no-13-lsu-expects-big-jump-de-hunter No. 13 LSU expects big jump from DE Hunter]</ref>

===Junior===
{{see also|2014 LSU Tigers football team}}

Hunter returned as a starter for his junior year in 2014.<ref>[http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2014/10/danielle_hunter_emerging_as_do.html Danielle Hunter is emerging as a dominant defender at the right time for LSU]</ref> 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 Badgers football|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 Bulldogs football|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 Tigers football|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 Wildcats football|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 Rebels football|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 Fighting Irish|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===
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Season
! rowspan="2"| Team
! rowspan="2"| {{abbr|GP|Games played}}
! rowspan="2"| {{abbr|GS|Games started}}
! colspan="5"| Tackles
! colspan="6"| Interceptions
! colspan="4"| Fumbles
|-
! {{abbr|Cmb|Combined tackles}} !! {{abbr|Solo|Solo tackles}} !! {{abbr|Ast|Assisted tackles}} !! {{abbr|Sck|Sacks}} !! {{abbr|TfL|Tackles for loss}} !! {{abbr|PD|Passes defended}} !! {{abbr|Int|Interceptions}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Return yards}} !! {{abbr|Avg|Average return yards}} !! {{abbr|Lng|Longest interception}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}} !! {{abbr|FF|Forced fumbles}} !! {{abbr|FR|Fumble recoveries}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Fumble return yards}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}}
|-
! [[2012 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2012]] !! [[2012 LSU Tigers football team|LSU]]
| 12 || 0 || 12 || 3 || 9 || 0.0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2013 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2013]] !! [[2013 LSU Tigers football team|LSU]]
| 13 || 10 || 57 || 19 || 38 || 3.0 || 8.0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2014 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2014]] !! [[2014 LSU Tigers football team|LSU]]
| 13 || 13 || 73 || 30 || 43 || 1.5 || 13.0 || 6 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 25 || 1
|-
! colspan="2"| Totals !! 38 !! 23 !! 142 !! 52 !! 90 !! 4.5 !! 21.0 !! 8 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0.0 !! 0 !! 0 !! 2 !! 1 !! 25 !! 1
|}


==Professional career==
==Professional career==
===Pre-draft===
===Pre-draft===
Described as a [[defensive end]] with tremendous athletic upside and a good motor, Hunter was often compared to [[Jason Pierre-Paul]] in terms of his similar length, burst and potential.
Following his junior season, Hunter entered the 2015 NFL draft.<ref>[http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2015/01/lsu_de_danielle_hunter_opts_fo.html LSU DE Danielle Hunter says he will enter the 2015 NFL Draft]</ref> 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 media
| video1 = [https://www.raiders.com/media-vault/videos/2015-Combine-workout-Danielle-Hunter/17140bc6-4263-4c81-ab03-57868203e161 Hunter's NFL Combine workout]
| video2 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/0ap3000000490190/Vikings-pick-Hunter-No-88 Hunter gets drafted by Minnesota]
}}


{{nfl predraft
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 6
| height ft = 6
| height in = 5
| height in = 5 1/8
| weight = 252
| weight = 252
| dash = 4.57
| dash = 4.57
Line 59: Line 123:
| vertical = 36.5
| vertical = 36.5
| broad ft = 10
| broad ft = 10
| broad in = 10.5
| broad in = 10
| bench = 25
| bench = 25
| wonderlic =
| wonderlic =
| arm span =
| arm span = 34 1/4
| hand span =
| hand span = 10 1/2
| note = All values from NFL Combine and Pro Day<ref>http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=123579&draftyear=2015&genpos=DE</ref>
| note = All values from [[NFL Combine]] and [[Pro Day]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Danielle Hunter Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/danielle-hunter/32004855-4e52-9240-4ef3-07ebfed3439a |access-date=December 13, 2023 |website=NFL.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Draft Scout Danielle Hunter College Football Profile |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=123579&DraftYear=2015 |access-date=December 13, 2023 |website=DraftScout.com}}</ref>
}}
}}


At the [[NFL Combine|2015 NFL Combine]], Hunter registered a time of 4.57 seconds, the fastest time among defensive linemen. He also did 25 repetitions on the 225-pound [[bench press]].
At the [[NFL Combine|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===
===Minnesota Vikings===
====2015====
Hunter was selected by the [[Minnesota Vikings]] in the third round of the [[2015 NFL Draft]] with the 88th pick overall. 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]].<ref name="draftpick">{{cite web| url = http://espn.go.com/blog/minnesota-vikings/post/_/id/13563/total-breakdown-vikings-draft-de-danielle-hunter-in-third-round | title = Total breakdown: Vikings draft DE Danielle Hunter in third round | publisher = ESPN.go.com | first = Ben| last = Goessling | date = 2015-05-01 | accessdate = 2015-05-20 }}</ref>
Hunter was selected by the [[Minnesota Vikings]] in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft with the 88th pick overall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2015/draft.htm |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> The pick was part of a trade where the Vikings traded back in the third round, giving up their [[Alex Carter (cornerback)|80th overall pick]] for the third- and fifth-rounders (88th and [[MyCole Pruitt|143rd overall)]] of the [[Detroit Lions]].<ref name="draftpick">{{cite web| url = https://www.espn.com/blog/minnesota-vikings/post/_/id/13563/total-breakdown-vikings-draft-de-danielle-hunter-in-third-round | title = Total breakdown: Vikings draft DE Danielle Hunter in third round | publisher = ESPN.go.com | first = Ben|
last = Goessling | date = May 1, 2015 | access-date = May 20, 2015 }}</ref> 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 (defensive tackle)|Kevin Williams]] registered more sacks than Hunter in their first two NFL seasons with the Vikings.<ref>[https://thevikingage.com/2017/03/26/danielle-hunter-the-quiet-storm-waiting-to-wreak-havoc-on-the-rest-of-the-nfl/ Danielle Hunter: The quiet storm waiting to wreak havoc on the rest of the NFL]</ref>

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 [[tackle (football move)|tackles]] (29 of them solo), 10 tackles for loss, 6.0 [[quarterback sack|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.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2015.htm |access-date=2024-08-03 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

====2016====
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.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.vikings.com/news/article-1/Danielle-Hunter-on-TD-Fumble-Return-I-Just-Scooped-and-Scored/cccfe064-d27b-450a-b8c9-edf488eb6243?sf35652355=1 |title=Danielle Hunter on TD Fumble Return: 'I Just Scooped and Scored' |access-date=September 12, 2016 |archive-date=October 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011125446/http://www.vikings.com/news/article-1/Danielle-Hunter-on-TD-Fumble-Return-I-Just-Scooped-and-Scored/cccfe064-d27b-450a-b8c9-edf488eb6243?sf35652355=1 |url-status=dead }}</ref> 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.<ref>[http://www.twincities.com/2016/09/19/vikings-defense-going-after-big-game-changers/ Vikings defense going after big game-changers]</ref> 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]].<ref>[http://thevikingage.com/2016/09/25/vikings-danielle-hunter-sack-cam-newton-safety/ Danielle Hunter sacks Cam Newton for a safety]</ref> 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).<ref>[https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-25-under-25-the-nfls-best-young-players/ Top 25 under 25: The NFL's best young players]</ref> Hunter was the only Viking to be featured on [[NFL.com]] analyst Elliot Harrison's All-Under-25 team.<ref>[http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000794421?module=HP11_photo_gallery Elliot Harrison's All-Under-25 team]</ref>

====2017====
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.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=400951724 |title=Dominant defense leads Lions to 14-7 victory over Vikings |date=October 1, 2017|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>
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 (safety)|Anthony Harris]] on the first offensive play of the second half. The Vikings eventually won the game 33–16.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=400951683 |title=Keenum, Forbath help Vikings win 33-16 vs. Browns in London |date=October 29, 2017|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>
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.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01/gamelog/2017/ |title=Danielle Hunter 2017 Game Log |website=www.pro-football-reference.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>

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]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=400999180 |title=Stunner: Keenum-Diggs TD on last play; Vikes win 29-24 |date=January 14, 2018|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>
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.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=400999174 |title=Foles, Eagles fly into Super Bowl, rout Vikings |date=January 21, 2018|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>

====2018====
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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vikings' Danielle Hunter lands 5-year, $72M extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vikings-danielle-hunter-lands-5-year-72m-extension-0ap3000000938700 |author=Teope, Herbie |website=NFL.com |date=June 27, 2018}}</ref> 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.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01.htm|title=Danielle Hunter Stats|website=Pro-Football-Reference.com|language=en|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kareem Hunt, Michael Thomas among Players of the Week|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000985405/article/kareem-hunt-michael-thomas-among-player-of-the-week|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181110080522/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000985405/article/kareem-hunt-michael-thomas-among-player-of-the-week|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 10, 2018|website=NFL.com|date=November 7, 2018}}</ref> In that same game, the Vikings set a new franchise record with 10 sacks.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vikings Sack Matthew Stafford 10 Times, Set Franchise Record|url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/11/04/vikings-sack-record-matthew-stafford-lions-victory-nfc-north|website=SI.com|date=November 4, 2018|access-date=November 9, 2018}}</ref> Hunter would finish the 2018 season with 72 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery for a touchdown.<ref name=":0" /> Hunter's 14.5 sacks tied him with [[Von Miller]] for fourth most in the NFL.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/defense.htm|title=2018 NFL Defense|website=Pro-Football-Reference.com|language=en|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref> For these efforts, Hunter was awarded his first trip to the [[Pro Bowl]], where he recorded a sack against [[Andrew Luck]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://vikingswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/27/hunter-with-a-sack-thielen-with-an-int-and-more-vikings-pro-bowl-highlights/|title=Hunter with a sack, Thielen with an INT, and more Vikings' Pro Bowl highlights|date=2019-01-27|website=Vikings Wire|language=en|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref> 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 [[Pro Football Writers Association|PFWA]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2019/01/04/2018-ap-all-pro-team/38842777/|title=2018 AP All-Pro Team|website=USA TODAY|language=en|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.profootballwriters.org/2019/01/15/pfwa-2018-all-nfl-all-afc-and-all-nfc-teams-announced/|title=PFWA 2018 All-NFL, All-AFC and All-NFC teams {{!}} PFWA|last=PFWA|date=2019-01-15|language=en-US|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/us/us/nfl/list/sporting-news-nfl-all-pro-team-coaches-select-leagues-best-for-2018/1190375q8i8711cl48lsm22d5h/|title=Sporting News NFL All-Pro team: Coaches select league's best for 2018|website=Sporting News|access-date=2019-02-05}}</ref>

====2019====
In Week 1 against the [[Atlanta Falcons]], Hunter recorded his first sack of the season on [[Matt Ryan (American football)|Matt Ryan]] as the Vikings won 28–12.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127961 |title=Vikings trample Falcons 28-12 behind fierce defense, Cook |date=September 8, 2019 |website=www.espn.com |agency=Associated Press|access-date=September 8, 2019}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Tannehill, Jimmy Garoppolo among Players of the Week|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/ryan-tannehill-jimmy-garoppolo-among-players-of-the-week-0ap3000001086756|author=Bergman, Jeremy|website=NFL.com|date=December 11, 2019}}</ref> In the game, Hunter became the youngest player in NFL history to reach 50 sacks.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127926 |title=Defense delivers as Vikings sail past Lions 20-7 |date=December 8, 2019 |website=www.espn.com |access-date=December 8, 2019}}</ref> Hunter finished the regular season with 70 tackles, 14.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery in 16 games started.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01/gamelog/2019/ |title=Danielle Hunter 2019 Game Log |website=www.pro-football-reference.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>
On December 17, 2019, Hunter was nominated to play in his second straight Pro Bowl.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.dailynorseman.com/2019/12/17/21027363/dalvin-cook-danielle-hunter-harrison-smith-pro-bowl-minnesota-vikings |title=Dalvin Cook, Danielle Hunter, Harrison Smith named to Pro Bowl |last=Gates |first=Christopher |date=December 17, 2019 |website=dailynorseman.com |access-date=March 30, 2020}}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401131038 |title=Cook, Vikings upend Saints 26-20 in OT in NFC playoffs |date=January 5, 2020|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=January 5, 2020}}</ref>
In the divisional round against the [[San Francisco 49ers]], Hunter sacked [[Jimmy Garoppolo]] once during the 27–10 loss.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401131040 |title=49ers win 1st playoff game in 6 years, 27-10 over Vikings |date=January 11, 2020|agency=Associated Press |website=www.espn.com |access-date=January 11, 2020}}</ref>

====2020====
On September 9, 2020, Hunter was placed on [[injured reserve]] with a neck injury.<ref>{{cite web|title=Minnesota Vikings place Pro Bowl DE Danielle Hunter on injured reserve|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29846918/minnesota-vikings-place-pro-bowl-de-danielle-hunter-injured-reserve|work=ESPN|date=September 9, 2020}}</ref> He underwent season-ending surgery to clean up a herniated disc in his neck.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vikings DE Danielle Hunter to undergo surgery, out for rest of season|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vikings-de-danielle-hunter-to-undergo-surgery-out-for-rest-of-season|author=Patra, Kevin|website=NFL.com|date=October 22, 2020}}</ref>

====2021====
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====
On July 30, 2023, Hunter signed a new one-year deal with the Vikings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vikings Reach Deal with Danielle Hunter|url=https://www.vikings.com/news/danielle-hunter-contract-restructure-deal|author=Peters, Craig|website=Vikings.com|date=July 30, 2023}}</ref>

In October, Hunter was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for his strong performance.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gordon |first1=Grant |title=Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill, Eagles WR A.J. Brown highlight October Players of the Month |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-wr-tyreek-hill-eagles-wr-a-j-brown-highlight-october-players-of-the-mon |website=NFL |access-date=2 November 2023}}</ref>

===Houston Texans===
On March 14, 2024, Hunter signed a two-year, $49 million contract with the [[Houston Texans]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Houston Texans Transactions (03-14-2024) |url=https://www.houstontexans.com/news/houston-texans-transactions-03-14-2024 |website=NFL |access-date=14 March 2024 |date=14 March 2024}}</ref>

==NFL career statistics==
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="2"| Legend
|-
| style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"|
| Led the league
|-
| '''Bold'''
| Career high
|}

===Regular season===
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team
! colspan="2"| Games
! colspan="5"| Tackles
! colspan="6"| Interceptions
! colspan="4"| Fumbles
|-
! {{abbr|GP|Games played}} !! {{abbr|GS|Games started}} !! {{abbr|Cmb|Combined tackles}} !! {{abbr|Solo|Solo tackles}} !! {{abbr|Ast|Assisted tackles}} !! {{abbr|Sck|Sacks}} !! {{abbr|Sfty|Safeties}} !! {{abbr|PD|Passes defended}} !! {{abbr|Int|Interceptions}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Return yards}} !! {{abbr|Avg|Average return yards}} !! {{abbr|Lng|Longest interception}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}} !! {{abbr|FF|Forced fumbles}} !! {{abbr|FR|Fumble recoveries}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Fumble return yards}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}}
|-
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] !! [[2015 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 14 || 1 || 33 || 29 || 4 || 6.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2016 NFL season|2016]] !! [[2016 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 16 || 0 || 56 || 34 || 22 || 12.5 || style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"| '''1''' || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || '''1''' || 24 || style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"| '''1'''
|-
! [[2017 NFL season|2017]] !! [[2017 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 16 || 16 || 45 || 27 || 18 || 7.0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || '''1''' || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2018 NFL season|2018]] !! [[2018 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 16 || 16 || 72 || 51 || 21 || 14.5 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || '''1''' || '''32''' || '''1'''
|-
! [[2019 NFL season|2019]] !! [[2019 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 16 || 16 || 70 || 52 || 18 || 14.5 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 3 || '''1''' || 4 || 0
|-
! [[2020 NFL season|2020]] !! [[2020 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 0 || 0 || colspan="15"| ''did not play due to injury''
|-
! [[2021 NFL season|2021]] !! [[2021 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 7 || 7 || 38 || 23 || 15 || 6.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2022 NFL season|2022]] !! [[2022 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 17 || 17 || 65 || 46 || 19 || 10.5 || 0 || '''3''' || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2023 NFL season|2023]] !! [[2023 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 17 || 17 || '''83''' || '''54''' || '''29''' || '''16.5''' || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || '''4''' || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2024 NFL season|2024]] !! [[2024 Houston Texans season|HOU]]
| 16 || 16 || 46 || 31 || 14 || 12.0 || 0 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-

! colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01.htm Career]!! 135 !! 106 !! 507 !! 347 !! 160 !! 99.5 !! 1 !! 11 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0.0 !! 0 !! 0 !! 12 !! 4 !! 60 !! 2
|}

===Postseason===
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team
! colspan="2"| Games
! colspan="5"| Tackles
! colspan="6"| Interceptions
! colspan="4"| Fumbles
|-
! {{abbr|GP|Games played}} !! {{abbr|GS|Games started}} !! {{abbr|Cmb|Combined tackles}} !! {{abbr|Solo|Solo tackles}} !! {{abbr|Ast|Assisted tackles}} !! {{abbr|Sck|Sacks}} !! {{abbr|Sfty|Safeties}} !! {{abbr|PD|Passes defended}} !! {{abbr|Int|Interceptions}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Return yards}} !! {{abbr|Avg|Average return yards}} !! {{abbr|Lng|Longest interception}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}} !! {{abbr|FF|Forced fumbles}} !! {{abbr|FR|Fumble recoveries}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Fumble return yards}} !! {{abbr|TD|Touchdowns}}
|-
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] !! [[2015 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 1 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2017 NFL season|2017]] !! [[2017 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| '''2''' || '''2''' || 9 || '''6''' || 3 || 1.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2019 NFL season|2019]] !! [[2019 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| '''2''' || '''2''' || '''10''' || 5 || '''5''' || '''2.5''' || 0 || '''1''' || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || '''1''' || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2023 NFL season|2023]] !! [[2023 Minnesota Vikings season|MIN]]
| 1 || 1 || 4 || 3 || 1 || 1.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HuntDa01.htm Career] !! 6 !! 5 !! 24 !! 15 !! 9 !! 4.5 !! 0 !! 1 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0.0 !! 0 !! 0 !! 1 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0
|}


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist|30em}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons}}
*[http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205371934 LSU Tigers bio]
{{footballstats|yahoo=28476|espn=2976560|nfl=danielle-hunter}}
*[https://www.houstontexans.com/team/players-roster/danielle-hunter/ Houston Texans bio]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20180630190134/http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205371934 LSU Tigers bio]


{{Houston Texans roster navbox}}
{{Vikings2015DraftPicks}}
{{Vikings2015DraftPicks}}
{{Minnesota Vikings roster navbox}}


{{Persondata
| NAME = Hunter, Danielle
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American football player
| DATE OF BIRTH = October 29, 1994
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Katy, Texas, USA
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hunter, Danielle}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hunter, Danielle}}
[[Category:1994 births]]
[[Category:1994 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:People from Katy, Texas]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Texas]]
[[Category:American football defensive ends]]
[[Category:American football defensive ends]]
[[Category:American football linebackers]]
[[Category:American football outside linebackers]]
[[Category:Houston Texans players]]
[[Category:Jamaican emigrants to the United States]]
[[Category:Jamaican players of American football]]
[[Category:LSU Tigers football players]]
[[Category:LSU Tigers football players]]
[[Category:Minnesota Vikings players]]
[[Category:Minnesota Vikings players]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Katy, Texas]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Saint Catherine Parish]]
[[Category:National Conference Pro Bowl players]]

Latest revision as of 13:38, 4 January 2025

Not to be confused with Daniel Hunter.

Danielle Hunter
refer to caption
Hunter with the Minnesota Vikings in 2015
No. 55 – Houston Texans
Position:Defensive end
Personal information
Born: (1994-10-29) October 29, 1994 (age 30)
St. Catherine, Jamaica
Height:6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Weight:263 lb (119 kg)
Career information
High school:Morton Ranch (Katy, Texas)
College:LSU (2012–2014)
NFL draft:2015 / round: 3 / pick: 88
Career history
Roster status:Active
Career highlights and awards
Career NFL statistics as of Week 15, 2024
Total tackles:504
Sacks:99.5
Forced fumbles:12
Fumble recoveries:4
Pass deflections:11
Defensive touchdowns:2
Stats at Pro Football Reference

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.

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

[edit]

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

Freshman

[edit]
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

[edit]
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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

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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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Led the league
Bold Career high

Regular season

[edit]
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 16 16 46 31 14 12.0 0 3 0 0 0.0 0 1 0 0 0 0
Career 135 106 507 347 160 99.5 1 11 0 0 0.0 0 0 12 4 60 2

Postseason

[edit]
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
2023 MIN 1 1 4 3 1 1.0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Career 6 5 24 15 9 4.5 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Danielle Hunter Bio". LSUsports.net. Archived from the original on November 2, 2012. Retrieved August 2, 2019.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
  2. ^ "District 19-5A Meet - Results (FAT) (Raw)". Texas MileSplit. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  3. ^ "Rivals.com biography". n.rivals.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  4. ^ "Idaho at LSU Box Score, September 15, 2012". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  5. ^ "Danielle Hunter 2012 Game Log". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  6. ^ "Auburn at LSU Box Score, September 21, 2013". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  7. ^ "Florida at LSU Box Score, October 12, 2013". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  8. ^ "Outback Bowl - Iowa vs LSU Box Score, January 1, 2014". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  9. ^ Rabalais, Scott. "Rabalais: Danielle Hunter a name to know for your fantasy team". The Advocate. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  10. ^ "Spring prediction: Hunter's rush improves". ESPN.com. March 7, 2014. Retrieved August 2, 2019.
  11. ^ No. 13 LSU expects big jump from DE Hunter
  12. ^ Danielle Hunter is emerging as a dominant defender at the right time for LSU
  13. ^ LSU DE Danielle Hunter says he will enter the 2015 NFL Draft
  14. ^ "Danielle Hunter Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL.com. Retrieved December 13, 2023.
  15. ^ "2015 NFL Draft Scout Danielle Hunter College Football Profile". DraftScout.com. Retrieved December 13, 2023.
  16. ^ "2015 NFL Draft Listing". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved May 15, 2023.
  17. ^ Goessling, Ben (May 1, 2015). "Total breakdown: Vikings draft DE Danielle Hunter in third round". ESPN.go.com. Retrieved May 20, 2015.
  18. ^ Danielle Hunter: The quiet storm waiting to wreak havoc on the rest of the NFL
  19. ^ "2015 NFL All-Rookie Team". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved August 3, 2024.
  20. ^ "Danielle Hunter on TD Fumble Return: 'I Just Scooped and Scored'". Archived from the original on October 11, 2016. Retrieved September 12, 2016.
  21. ^ Vikings defense going after big game-changers
  22. ^ Danielle Hunter sacks Cam Newton for a safety
  23. ^ Top 25 under 25: The NFL's best young players
  24. ^ Elliot Harrison's All-Under-25 team
  25. ^ "Dominant defense leads Lions to 14-7 victory over Vikings". www.espn.com. Associated Press. October 1, 2017. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  26. ^ "Keenum, Forbath help Vikings win 33-16 vs. Browns in London". www.espn.com. Associated Press. October 29, 2017. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  27. ^ "Danielle Hunter 2017 Game Log". www.pro-football-reference.com. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  28. ^ "Stunner: Keenum-Diggs TD on last play; Vikes win 29-24". www.espn.com. Associated Press. January 14, 2018. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  29. ^ "Foles, Eagles fly into Super Bowl, rout Vikings". www.espn.com. Associated Press. January 21, 2018. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  30. ^ Teope, Herbie (June 27, 2018). "Vikings' Danielle Hunter lands 5-year, $72M extension". NFL.com.
  31. ^ a b "Danielle Hunter Stats". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  32. ^ "Kareem Hunt, Michael Thomas among Players of the Week". NFL.com. November 7, 2018. Archived from the original on November 10, 2018.
  33. ^ "Vikings Sack Matthew Stafford 10 Times, Set Franchise Record". SI.com. November 4, 2018. Retrieved November 9, 2018.
  34. ^ "2018 NFL Defense". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  35. ^ "Hunter with a sack, Thielen with an INT, and more Vikings' Pro Bowl highlights". Vikings Wire. January 27, 2019. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  36. ^ "2018 AP All-Pro Team". USA TODAY. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  37. ^ PFWA (January 15, 2019). "PFWA 2018 All-NFL, All-AFC and All-NFC teams | PFWA". Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  38. ^ "Sporting News NFL All-Pro team: Coaches select league's best for 2018". Sporting News. Retrieved February 5, 2019.
  39. ^ "Vikings trample Falcons 28-12 behind fierce defense, Cook". www.espn.com. Associated Press. September 8, 2019. Retrieved September 8, 2019.
  40. ^ Bergman, Jeremy (December 11, 2019). "Ryan Tannehill, Jimmy Garoppolo among Players of the Week". NFL.com.
  41. ^ "Defense delivers as Vikings sail past Lions 20-7". www.espn.com. December 8, 2019. Retrieved December 8, 2019.
  42. ^ "Danielle Hunter 2019 Game Log". www.pro-football-reference.com. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  43. ^ Gates, Christopher (December 17, 2019). "Dalvin Cook, Danielle Hunter, Harrison Smith named to Pro Bowl". dailynorseman.com. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  44. ^ "Cook, Vikings upend Saints 26-20 in OT in NFC playoffs". www.espn.com. Associated Press. January 5, 2020. Retrieved January 5, 2020.
  45. ^ "49ers win 1st playoff game in 6 years, 27-10 over Vikings". www.espn.com. Associated Press. January 11, 2020. Retrieved January 11, 2020.
  46. ^ "Minnesota Vikings place Pro Bowl DE Danielle Hunter on injured reserve". ESPN. September 9, 2020.
  47. ^ Patra, Kevin (October 22, 2020). "Vikings DE Danielle Hunter to undergo surgery, out for rest of season". NFL.com.
  48. ^ Peters, Craig (July 30, 2023). "Vikings Reach Deal with Danielle Hunter". Vikings.com.
  49. ^ Gordon, Grant. "Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill, Eagles WR A.J. Brown highlight October Players of the Month". NFL. Retrieved November 2, 2023.
  50. ^ "Houston Texans Transactions (03-14-2024)". NFL. March 14, 2024. Retrieved March 14, 2024.
[edit]
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