Brian Cushing is a former NFL linebacker. Cushing attended the University of Southern California and played for the USC Trojans football team from 2005 to 2008 under head coach Pete Carroll.

Cushing was drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played for the Texans from 2009 to 2017 and became the team's all-time leading tackler. Many say Cushing had one of the best rookie seasons as a defensive tackle ever.In 2011, the Houston Texans finished the season with a 10–6 record and made it to the playoffs for the first time in team history. Cushing was named Team MVP after finishing the season with 114 tackles, 4 sacks, 5 pass deflections, 2 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles.Cushing inked a six-year deal with the Houston Texans, a contract extension worth $55.6 million, which included $21 million guaranteed. Averaging $9.2 million for the next six years, the contract was the largest at the time for any inside linebacker, and made him the third highest paid inside linebacker in the NFL.

Houston Texans defensive coordinator, Wade Phillips, called Cushing a "holy phenom" and also said that "he's one of the best I've ever coached, and I've been at it a long time." Cushing is still dedicated to the sport of football. As of 2021, Cushing is the assistant strength and conditioning coach for the Houston Texans.