Eight years into his tenure with the Texans, veteran middle linebacker Brian Cushing remains a leader of the NFL's top-ranked defense.
Cushing has overcome fractured bones in his back and a sprained medial collateral ligament this season as well as numerous leg and knee injuries in the past.
The former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowl selection has recorded 65 tackles, two for losses and one pass defended this season in 13 starts.
"I think Brian has done an excellent job leading that defense," Texans coach Bill O'Brien said. "He's the heart and soul right in that middle.