The Houston Texans have waived linebacker Zach Cunningham, the team announced Wednesday. 
Cunningham, 27, was inactive in Week 13 after showing up late for a COVID-19 test. This was the second occasion he had been benched this season.  
“We have standards,” coach David Culley said Wednesday. “I didn’t feel like those standards were being met consistently.”
Cunningham, a second-round draft pick in 2017, signed a four-year contract extension in August 2020 for $58 million. He was ranked second in the league that year with most tackles (164). 
Culley said the decision to part ways with Cunningham “wasn’t tough at all.”
“I feel like I made a decision that was best for our team,” Culley said. “It is not about one individual. It is not about being the best player on the team. But also, being the best player for the team.”
The linebacker has 67 tackles and one forced fumble in 10 games this season.
On Thursday, Cunningham was claimed off waivers by the Tennessee Titans. Cunningham could get a chance to face off against his former team in the regular-season finale when the Titans travel to face the Texans.
Houston (2-10) will host the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.
Contact Analis Bailey at aabailey@usatoday.com or on Twitter @analisbailey.

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