Brian Cushing says he failed drug test because he over-trained

Before drug tests, don't exercise?

Houston Texans linebacker Brian Cushing, who was suspended for four games this season after testing positive for HCG last September, said he failed the drug test because he was over-training.

Cushing, a former USC star, denies using the drug, which can be used to bolster testosterone production after a steroid cycle. He said doctors told him he tested positive because he suffered from hormone surpluses due to "over-trained athlete syndrome."

Texans owner Bob McNair flew to New York on Monday to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to try to get Cushing's suspension reduced.

Some people say exercise is like a drug, but the Texans may be taking that phrase a bit too literally.

-- Melissa Rohlin

The Associated Press contributed to this report.