Brian Cushing informed of his impending release by Texans
The Houston Texans have informed linebacker Brian Cushing that they intend to release him. John McClain of the Houston Chronicle tweeted out the news Sunday.
The Texans have told ILB Brian Cushing that he'll be released sometime before the league year begins March 14. The emergence of second-year ILBs Zach
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) February 19, 2018
Cunningham and Dylan Cole made Cushing expendable. They'll save $7.64 milliion under the salary cap when he's released.
This possibility was explored in an article from January. Younger linebackers on the roster have made Cushing expendable. When the Texans selected Zach Cunnningham in this past draft they were essentially drafting Cushing’s replacement. As mentioned in McClain’s tweet, Dylan Cole was also a welcome presence for the Texans defense. Both rookies stepped up when the team needed it and provided the production needed from that position. The impact from these players have allowed Houston to embrace the youth on the defensive side of the ball.
The Houston Texans selected Cushing with the 15th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. A Pro Bowl selection in his first year, Cushing made an instant impact for the Texans on defense. Amassing 133 total tackles, four sacks, four interceptions and one safety. After a dynamic rookie season, Cushing tested positive for performance enhancing drugs. As a result of the positive test, the NFL suspended Cushing for the first four games of the 2010 season. A lackluster 2010 season was the result for Cushing as he only totaled 76 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 12 games.
In 2011 a position change to inside linebacker brought new life to Cushing. Making a combined 125 tackles with four sacks and two interceptions in his position. However this was the last season Cushing was prolific. Injuries took their toll as Cushing appeared in only 12 games over the next two seasons.
Over the next three seasons Cushing only missed five games. Cushing was a consistent presence for the Texans during their three straight 9-7 seasons with two playoff appearances. Although not all was well with Cushing. Again he tested positive for PED’s and was suspended 10 games for this violation. This was the second violation and another positive test would result in Cushing missing an entire season. Cushing finished his final season with the Texans making 16 total tackles and 1.5 sacks.
There are many factors at play in regards to the decision to move on from Cushing. Injuries, previous PED violations and money. While Cushing has been relatively healthy as of late, there is always the concern about if he gets hurt again. A potential season long suspension due to another PED violation is also concerning. Finally the money left on his contract is a little much to pay for a player relegated to a backup role.
Houston will save $7.64 million this year and $9.5 million next year with his release. The Texans can use this money to upgrade their roster. Without a pick in the first two rounds of April’s draft, free agency will be key for the Texans. Finding money to improve their roster is a must. This means cutting players like Cushing.