On June 14th, the Houston Texans dolled out $50 million over five years to middle linebacker Benardrick McKinney. However, only $21 million of is guaranteed. The three-year pro has been a key player for the Texans drafted him out of Mississippi State.
After the Houston Texans released Brian Cushing earlier in the offseason, it was obvious a McKinney extension was on the way. Cushing has been injury prone for the last several seasons. This forced McKinney into a leadership role rapidly.
While JJ Watt, Jadeveon Clowney, and even Whitney Mercilus may garner the headlines, McKinney is a stalwart and the quarterback of this defense.