Updated

Brian Cushing didn't need long to show he was back after season-ending knee surgery.

The linebacker returned an interception for a touchdown, helping the Texans rally for a win at San DIego in their opener. Coach Gary Kubiak wasn't surprised. He could tell from practice the old Cushing had returned.

Cushing saw limited action in preseason while easing his way back after surgery to repair the torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The 26-year-old Cushing was sidelined by the injury in Week 5 last season.

The Texans were confident he'd return to form this season, and signed him to a six-year, $55.6 million contract extension, with $21 million guaranteed on Sept. 4.

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