BC Alum Cushing Out With Torn ACL

Since being drafted in the 15th round by the Houston Texans in 2009, Park Ridge native and Bergen Catholic alum Brian Cushing has never missed a game. But after the Texans 23-17 victory over the New York Jets on Monday night, the 25-year-old middle linebacker will now sit out the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL.

Cushing was hit halfway through the second quarter on a low block by Jets guard Matt Slauson on what is being called a chop block from behind. Check out the hit on Cushing here at NFL.com.

“A big blow for our team,” Texans head coach Gary Kubiak told the Associated Press. “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.”

The former Crusader is expected to have surgery to repair the tear in two to three weeks once any swelling has subsided. In the 2012 season prior to his season-ending injury, Cushing had 29 tackles, one interception and one forced fumble.

"I got cut. I got cut on a run play. It happens," Cushing told the Jackson Sun 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."

During his time at Bergen Catholic, Cushing went on to lead the Crusaders to the 2004 Group IV State Championship in a 13-10 win over arch rival Don Bosco Prep. From there he went and competed at the University of Southern California.

The Texans currently sport a 5-0 record and lead the AFC South Division. They will compete at home on Sunday at Reliant Stadium as they host the Green Bay Packers (2-3 in NFC North). The game will be aired at 8:20pm on NBC.

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