Brian Cushing’s contract details emerge

Late Tuesday afternoon, reports surfaced Houston Texans linebacker Brian Cushing agreed to a six-year contract extension with the Texans.

Pro Football Talk is reporting the six-year deal is worth $55,643,000 with $21 million guaranteed.

The 26-year old Cushing was entering the final year of his rookie contract. The former Southern Cal star was the 15th overall pick of the 2009 draft. In his rookie season, Cushing recorded 134 tackles, 5.0 sacks, four interceptions and two forced fumbles. He was named defensive rookie of the year. In May of 2010, it was reported Cushing failed a drug test early in the 2009 season. He reportedly had above normal levels of hCG, a hormone, in his system. The media held a revote and Cushing still won the rookie of the year award. He was suspended for the first four games of the 2010 season, but still wound up with 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in 12 games.

In 2012, Cushing suffered a torn ACL in the fifth game of the season. In just over four games, Cushing had 30 tackles, an interception and a forced fumble.

The Texans start their season in San Diego against the Chargers Monday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:15 pm EST.