Texans lose LB Brian Cushing for season; 3 rookies cut for violating team rules

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dexter McCluster (22) is tackled by Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) during the second half of an NFL football game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley) (The Associated Press)

Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) dives over blockers going after Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) during the first half of an NFL football game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) (The Associated Press)

Texans Pro Bowl linebacker Brian Cushing is out for the season with a left knee injury that will require surgery.

Cushing was injured in the third quarter of Sunday's loss at Kansas City during a low block by running back Jamaal Charles. It's the second straight year Cushing has been lost for the year with a left knee injury. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament in the same knee in Week 5 last season.

The Texans signed Cushing to a six-year contract worth $55.6 million before this season.

Coach Gary Kubiak said injuries to left tackle Duane Brown (ankle), running back Arian Foster (hamstring) and Ben Tate (ribs) aren't serious.

Kubiak also said rookies Cierre Wood, Sam Montgomery and Willie Jefferson were released for violating team rules.