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No one expected that much out of Houston Texans linebacker Brian Cushing heading into last season. He was coming off a PED-marred sophomore campaign where he simply didn't play as well as he did in his rookie season.
He was changing schemes to an inside linebacker in Wade Phillips' 3-4 defense and many thought he wouldn't fit. Instead, he put together a season that was worthy of Defensive Player of the Year consideration.
Debate: "Top 100" surprises
NFL Network continued with the "The Top 100: Players of 2012," rolling out Nos. 61-70. Our analysts debate the rankings. More ...
After not making our Top 100 players last year, Cushing checked in at No. 54. I've given the voters a lot of grief for some of their selections -- (Vilma, Really!?), but they nailed this one. Cushing deserves it. Let's hand out a few other awards.