Brian Cushing, twice suspended for PEDs, hired to Texans' strength and conditioning staff
The Houston Texans have made a somewhat unexpected addition to their staff, hiring 2009 NFL defensive rookie of the year Brian Cushing as a member of the team's strength and conditioning staff.
Cushing spent his entire nine-year NFL career with the Texans before retiring on a low note amidst a cloud of accusations relating to performance-enhancing drugs. The 32-year old will join Bill O'Brien's staff as an assistant strength coach per the Houston Chronicle, while he will assist the defensive coaching staff.
Cushing was a vocal leader on the Texans defense during his career and was well known for his work ethic, dedication and hard-nosed approach to the game. Cushing started 104 regular-season games for the Texans from 2009-2017.
Suspensions and injuries frequently sidelined him and resulted in just three seasons in which he played all 16 games.
Cushing was suspended twice by the NFL for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. In 2010, Cushing received a four-game suspension. In 2017, he was suspended 10 games. In March 2018, Cushing was released by the Texans, effectively ending his playing career.
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Cushing still should have relationships with many of the players, and his ability to relate to them on a more personal level might well pay dividends as it did when current Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel was brought in as linebackers coach. Much like Vrabel, expect Cushing to get his hands dirty and get involved with running drills as he progresses through the coaching ranks.
Follow Texans Wire's Anthony R Wood on Twitter @ar_woodNFL.
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