Texans’ JJ Watt (#99) looking down with concern for Brian Cushing (#56) as trainers come to his aid
Last night, Houston Texans’ linebacker Brian Cushing suffered a knee injury against the New York Jets at Metlife Stadium. The Texans worst fears became a reality when an MRI revealed he had a torn ACL and will miss the remainder of the season.
As powerful as the Texans’ defense can be, Cushing plays a vital role and this loss could turn to be devastating. Cushing made 29 tackles, had a forced fumble and an interception this season. He seemed to be all over the field against the Jets for Monday Night Football making five tackles and getting his hands on the ball to bat passes away.
Cushing injured his knee when he was cut blocked by an opposing linemen. He left the game and did not return.
According to USA Today, Texans’ defensive end JJ Watt said the loss is a tough situation, but it’s party of the game and you hope it was a legal play.
“I mean, they protect the offense. That’s kind of what they do,” said defensive end J.J. Watt, who had another monster game with a key sack in the fourth quarter, a tip that led to an interception and another batted ball to save a touchdown. “It’s a tough situation. I mean, I understand. Football’s a rough game, and I haven’t seen the play so I can’t comment on the play. But it’s a tough game.
Hopefully it was a legal play because you hate illegal plays, especially when players are injured. That’s not what you want.”
Cushing is a force in the linebacker position for the Texans and it will be interesting to see what happens when he’s not there. The combination of him and Watt make the Texans’ defense much more intimidating. Watt is currently having the year of his short career, and he could help to pick up the pieces as long as he keeps playing the way he’s playing. With the Green Bay Packers and Baltimore Ravens coming up in the schedule, it’s important for that Texans’ defense to take it up a notch, now more than ever.
Follow Kelsey O’Donnell on Twitter @KelsODonnell
