Brian Cushing injury: Texans LB expects to be back ‘better than ever’ in 2013

Cushing, 26, told reporters that the process of returning from a torn LCL and a broken fibula will require three months of rehab, a fraction of the time necessary to return from an ACL tear. After making his return, Cushing looked every bit like the dominant player he was in the past, recording 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, an interception and his first career touchdown in the first seven games of the season.

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The timetable would put Cushing on track to return to the Texans this season if the team were to make a deep postseason run, but at 2-5 the team’s playoff chances are slim at best. More likely, Cushing has suffered a season-ending injury for the second year in a row. He appeared in just five games in 2012 before being sidelined by a torn ACL, also caused by a low block to his left knee.

Despite the Texans’ struggles, Cushing was in the midst of a solid season. He had 44 tackles through the first six games of the season, which put him on track for 117 on the year, the most he would have had since his rookie season. He also had 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and an interception return for a touchdown.

The Texans linebacker entered Week 7 with 44 tackles in six games, and was on pace for 117 tackles -- which would have been the highest since Cushing’s rookie season in 2009. Injuries have plagued him during the last two seasons, and it remains to be seen how quickly he can bounce back from this latest ligament tear.

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Cushing’s left leg bent back awkwardly when he was hit low while attempting to rush the passer. He’s been ruled out for the game.

He was later carted off the field and taken to the locker room.