Brian Cushing

Last Updated: April 5th, 2009
Managed By: Brett Walker

School	USC
Height	6 ' 2.9 "
Weight	243 lbs.
Speed	4.74 ( Combine )

Graduation Year	2009
Birth Date	1/24/1987
Jersey #	10
Current Position	LB
Projected Position	LB
CDS Projected 2009 NFL Draft Round	1
Member Projected 2009 NFL Draft Round	Not enough entries

Important Links

USC's Profile for Brian Cushing

Stats

Season Year	GP	GS	Solo	Asst	TT	TFL	Sacks	FF	FR	INTs	PD	QBH
'05-'06	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
'06-'07	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
'07-'08	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
'08-'09	13	13	27	73	100	10.5	3	1	---	1	6	1

Overview

3 year starter in the USC Defense. Had a strong week at the SR Bowl and looks like a lock for the first round.

PRO DAY NOTES: 4.68 40.

Strengths

Long frame with long arms. Has the ability to close in on pass coverage in the flat and knock the ball down or make the tackle. Very active and is a sure tackler. Plays best when everything is in front of him and he can close. Good tackler. Very consisent. Looks the part. Gets after it and pursues his side of the field and can shed the initial block.

Weaknesses

Will struggle when he has to flip his hips and run with RBs or TEs coming out of the backfield. Is stiff in pass coverage and will struggle if it is not in front of him. Average ball skills when he has an interception chance. Has a consistent injury history with ankle and shoulder issues.

Projection

Cushing is a first rounder and may have to start off as a first and second down player. Will have to grow into pass coverage skills. Best fit is a SAM LB or the MIKE in a 3-4.

NOTE: Recent rumors of steroid usage may push him down some draft boards.

Member Ratings

User: Johanns21
Date/Time: 01/21/2009 - 4:29PM CST
Predicted Round: Round 1

By the way Cushing is having a very good start to the Senior Bowl. He is showing his speed and versitility. He can play well in coverage and even rush the passer. He did play DE for one year because they wanted him out on the field. He would be an ideal fit in the 3-4 where they can use him in different ways.

User: LionsFan
Date/Time: 01/14/2009 - 1:16PM CST
Predicted Round: Round 3

Could Cushing be a middle line backer in a 3-4 defense (ie Gary Reasons NY Giants)?

User: NinerFan85
Date/Time: 01/4/2009 - 2:55AM CST
Predicted Round: Round 2

Somebody will take a chance in the 2nd round.

User: ytse_jammer
Date/Time: 11/4/2008 - 9:36AM CST
Predicted Round: Round 3

Far too fragile to consider on the 1st day, and the scary lack of production reinforces that. It's too bad because with a clean bill of health he would be the best OLB in this draft.