Texans' Brian Cushing wants to keep playing, hopes to return

For nearly a decade, veteran linebacker Brian Cushing has delivered a hard-hitting, emotional presence in the middle of the Texans' defense.

Since returning from a 10-game suspension for violating the NFL performance-enhancing drug policy, Cushing has shifted to outside linebacker and has recorded a dozen tackles and 1 1/2 sacks in three starts.

Whether the 30-year-old former Pro Bowl selection and NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year will be back for a 10th season remains a fluid situation. He's under contract for the next two seasons with nonguaranteed base salaries of $7.25 million and $8.25 million.

Whether it's with the Texans, which is his preference, or elsewhere, Cushing feels he's far…