Houston Texans: Preseason depth chart projection

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Jan 9, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at NRG Stadium . Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

Inside Linebacker: Brian Cushing, Benardrick McKinney

This is a classic case of youth and experience. The interior linebackers for the Houston Texans feature one of the more talented veteran players in Brian Cushing and a highly regarded second year player in Benardrick McKinney.

Cushing was the NFL Rookie of the Year after being selected in the first round by Houston in 2009. He has shown his immense talent every season, but also has suffered through more than his share of injuries.

Those injuries have slowed him down a bit, but fortunately for the team they have a second round pick from 2015 that is on the cusp of being a really good defender. McKinney was one of the higher rated inside linebackers in the draft last year coming out of Mississippi State and played well as a rookie.

With a full season under his belt coupled with learning from Cushing, McKinney is poised for a much bigger season coming up.

Behind these two guys are a lot of question marks. Veteran Akeem Dent is the most experienced player and could provide some decent play if the injury bug strikes yet again.

Next: Cornerback

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