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This Brian Cushing Stat Might Surprise Texans Fans

Perhaps the Texans’ linebacker isn’t as bad at this as some fans think.

By Tim
Houston Texans v Oakland Raiders
A coverage ace after all?
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Pundits and fans alike have applauded the Texans’ decision to draft Zach Cunningham in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and one of the reasons most frequently given for the rave reviews is the idea that Cunningham will be able to provide pass coverage at linebacker that the Texans have lacked in recent years.

Benardrick McKinney, as good as he is, was exposed at times in the passing game last year when he was forced into covering tight ends and running backs especially against the Patriots. Brian Cushing, entering his ninth NFL season, hasn’t generally heard kudos for his coverage ability in recent years. Pro Football Focus, however, says that Cushing was actually quite solid against the pass last year.

Are you shocked by that stat? Or do you think Cushing has been unfairly maligned for his pass defense?

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