Outside linebacker Brian Cushing, the Texans' first-round draft choice, will not play in the last preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday.
Tight end James Casey, the fifth-round pick, will start but at fullback in place of the injured Vonta Leach.
Coach Gary Kubiak is resting many of the starters, opening the door for players like Casey to get their most playing time of preseason.
Cushing, who hasn't played in preseason because of a sprained knee, worked out hard during and after practice today.
"I'm 100 percent, but I don't think I'll be playing," Cushing said. "I feel great, but I think we're going to rest my knee one more week. I'm working at full speed. I'm putting the pads on. I don't feel any pain. I'm happy about how I feel.I'm 100 percent."
Leach has a bruised knee but even if he had been healthy he wouldn't have played.
"I'm excited about this opportunity," Casey said. "It's a great opportunity for me. The game is one day before the final cuts are made, and it's like my Super Bowl.
"I feel comfortable with my assignments at fullback. I'm excited about playing tight end, too. Even though a lot of starters aren't going to play, it's still against NFL players."
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