Texans’ Brian Cushing: “the worst part is over”
Texans’ linebacker and leader Brian Cushing has played 12 games in the last two seasons. That’s equal to or less than his total in each of his first three years. He’s been plagued with brutal injuries and has spent much of his last two years in physical therapy and recovery.
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“It has been a tough past two years but I feel that the worst part is over,” he said, via CSN Houston, after practicing for the first time in nearly 10 months.
At the same time, it was simple. He did his job.
“Put some pads on, played a little football,” he said smiling.
He was in a high for practice, no doubt. Coaches eased him into practice, playing only with the Texans players (the team is in joint practice with the Falcons). It was a big moment for him. He’s already looking longingly at preseason action.
“I think (game reps are important),” he said. “Obviously, you want to get some live action in a new scheme, a new system. You obviously want to get some live reps before a game comes around.”
His real goal, however, is more substantial. And he’s willing to forgo everything else to get after it.
“It is, but it’s a very small step,” he said on the importance of the day. “Sept. 7 (season opener), I think, will be the big step. Play again and go back out there and do what I love.”
The Texans will love it too if he’s out there. He will hold them together and lead a deadly-looking front seven.