Brian Cushing Injury: Houston Texans LB Suffers Torn ACL, Could Be Out For Season
The Houston Texans suffered an enormous blow Tuesday after it was announced that star linebacker Brian Cushing would most likely miss the entire 2012 season with a torn ACL.
According to ESPN, Cushing suffered the injury on Monday night when he was cut-blocked by an opposing offensive lineman in the second quarter of the Texans’ 23-17 victory over the New York Jets.
“I got cut. I got cut on a run play. It happens,” Cushing said Monday night when asked if he was aware what had happened. “I was just keeping my head up. Whatever happens, happens. It’s football. It’s part of the game.”
Following an MRI examination on Tuesday, Texans coach Gary Kubiak confirmed that Cushing has a torn anterior cruciate ligament and will need surgery in two to three weeks, after the swelling subsides.
Prior to the injury, Cushing was leading the team in tackles with 29 and also had one interception and one forced fumble on the season. In 2011, the former USC standout was selected to the NFL’s All-Pro team and was also Houston’s team MVP after accumulating an impressive 114 tackles for the year.
“A big blow for our team,” Kubiak said. “We have to have guys pick it up around him and we’ve got to find a way to move forward. We’re all just disappointed for him. It’s a tough day for him.”
Kubiak stated that Tim Dobbins was the first option to slide into Cushing’s role, while Mister Alexander and Jesse Nading are also being considered.
The undefeated Texans (5-0) are scheduled to take on the Green Bay Packers (2-3) on Sunday night.
