Texans Keep Ed Ingram, Vikings Retain Eric Wilson With New Three-Year Deals Before Free Agency

Houston Texans guard Ed Ingram and Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson are set to remain with their respective teams after both agreed to significant three-year contract extensions ahead of the NFL’s free agency period. The moves, reported by ESPN and NFL Network, signal each franchise’s commitment to stability in key positions as the 2026 offseason gets underway.

• Ed Ingram: three-year, $37.5 million deal with the Texans
• Eric Wilson: three-year, $22.5 million contract to stay with the Vikings

Ingram’s contract, averaging $12.5 million per year, positions him among the higher-paid interior offensive linemen, while Wilson’s $7.5 million annual average reflects his value as a reliable starter and locker room leader for Minnesota. Both deals come just before the official start of NFL free agency, allowing each team to avoid competition for their services on the open market.

The Texans have prioritized continuity on their offensive line, and Ingram’s re-signing fits that strategy. Since joining Houston, Ingram has provided steady play at guard and helped anchor an offensive front that supported one of the league’s most productive rushing attacks. His new contract extends his tenure through the 2028 season, giving Houston a reliable presence up front as they look to build on recent offensive successes.

Meanwhile, the Vikings ensured that Wilson, a core piece of their linebacker unit, will stay in purple and gold for the next three seasons. Wilson, whose versatility and experience have made him a stalwart on defense, avoided testing free agency by agreeing to a deal that rewards his consistent contributions. Minnesota’s decision highlights their desire to maintain stability in a defense that has undergone several changes in recent years.

While neither team released official statements immediately following the reports, the timing and structure of these deals reflect a broader NFL trend of locking in essential contributors before the frenzy of free agency begins. According to reports, both contracts were finalized Sunday, underscoring the urgency teams face in securing top talent before July’s negotiating window opens.

For Houston, Ingram’s return ensures that the offensive line remains a strength, crucial for protecting young quarterbacks and sustaining an effective ground game. On the defensive side, Minnesota’s commitment to Wilson solidifies their linebacker corps and provides leadership for a unit looking to rebound in the competitive NFC North.

As the NFL offseason progresses, these signings will likely influence the strategies of other teams seeking to address similar needs through the draft and remaining free agency options.