Thursday morning, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell upheld the four-game suspension of Houston Texans LB Brian Cushing for his positive test from last season. Cushing's test was positive for HCG.
Last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year being gone for the first quarter of the season could have a huge impact on the Texans, and fantasy leagues.
When evaluating LBs in your IDP league, Cushing has to be at/near the top of the list based on his performance last year, Because he won't be a factor, and owners rarely use bench slots for defensive players, Cushing could go undrafted in most leagues this year.
That could be a mistake.
Given his weekly production, having four weeks off could make Cushing more of a force down the stretch and he could actually have more fantasy value in later weeks this year. Also, HOU DEF could improve and be a solid waiver add after three weeks when Cushing's return is on the horizon.