Darryl

Sharpton

Ryans carried a $6 million salary, prohibitive for a two-down linebacker. Just as importantly, though, the team’s brass wanted to expand Sharpton’s role. The 2010 fourth-rounder could approximate Ryans’ production at a fraction of the cost. Sharpton drew high marks for run defense in 12 games as a rookie.

Sharpton got his right leg bent back the wrong way while getting blown up by a Jaguars’ offensive lineman. The medical staff quickly immobilized his right leg. This has the look of a serious injury.

Sharpton will need surgery. The second-year player has dealt with various injuries throughout his career, capping his production despite solid speed to the edge. Tim Dobbins will have to step up behind DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing on the inside. Ryans, who had been rotating with Sharpton, will be asked to play a full complement of snaps.

Sharpton is still rehabbing a torn quadriceps muscle that ended his season in late October. Coach Gary Kubiak does expect him to be ready for training camp, where he will have his hands full beating out Bradie James for the starting job next to Brian Cushing.

“I’ve kind of transitioned from the training room to the weight room,” said Sharpton. “I’m definitely gotten over that hump, I’m feeling good and I’m pretty much there.” Likely to be eased into training camp, Sharpton won’t have a fair shot to beat out Bradie James for the starting job next to Brian Cushing.

The oft-injured Sharpton recently sustained a setback, probably related to the torn quad that ended his 2011 season early. The Texans are looking thin at inside linebacker behind starters Brian Cushing and Bradie James.

Sharpton suffered the injury all the way back in October, so this is becoming a long-term issue. Coach Gary Kubiak stated that Sharpton’s injury is now affecting his hip. It looks like the 24-year-old may open the season on PUP.

He’ll be eligible to return after six games. Sharpton suffered an offseason setback after last year’s quadriceps tear, and is also dealing with a hip injury. The Texans will start Brian Cushing and Bradie James at inside ‘backer.

“I don’t mind throwing it on the table,” said Herring, “We’re pretty pleased with picking Bradie up, because we feel like we gained back what we lost with DeMeco (Ryans) leaving, and then some to be honest with you.” With four years in Wade Phillips’ defense, James has a decisive edge over Darryl Sharpton for the starting job.

Sharpton has been running on the side as the Texans conduct their OTAs. The third-year run-stuffer should have no problem getting to 100 percent ahead of training camp.