As a veteran entering his eighth NFL season, Texans middle linebacker Brian Cushing has learned to appreciate a few days off.
Cushing didn't play in the Texans' preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium and was also held out of a joint practice session preceding the game Sunday night.
Cushing, 29, returned to practice Tuesday.
"Yeah, it was just a couple days just to rest," Cushing said. "I'm kind of getting up there in years and experience. Any kind of break benefits me at this point in my career."
Years removed from having his left knee surgically repaired, the New Jersey native started every game last season and led the NFL's third-ranked defense with 110 tackles.