LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) — Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson will miss the rest of the season after tearing knee ligaments during practice, reports said Thursday.
Watson, 22, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament during a non-contact drill as the Texans prepared to face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.
An MRI scan confirmed the injury to the rising rookie star, reports said.
The news is a cruel blow for Watson, who has lit up the National Football League this season with a series of dazzling performances.
Watson was earlier Thursday named AFC Offensive Player of the Month for October.
So far he has thrown for 19 touchdowns this season, a record for an NFL quarterback through their first seven games in the league.
The young quarterback arrived at the Texans this year after a successful college career which saw him lead Clemson to the national championship last season.
Last Sunday, Watson threw for for 402 yards and four touchdowns as the Texans lost narrowly 41-38 to the Seattle Seahawks.
Watson’s performance earned plaudits from Seattle’s veteran defensive stalwart Richard Sherman.
“Has there ever been a rookie that does that? It would be hard to find,” Sherman said of Watson.
“He’s going to be a special player in this league. He made plays that very few people in this league, including the top-tier guys, can make.”
News of Watson’s injury prompted messages from across the NFL and other sports.
NBA star LeBron James Tweeted: “This seriously just made me sad man!! Get well and stronger asap @deshaunwatson.”
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who himself is working his way back from a serious knee injury, wrote: “Been overcoming adversity your entire life & never lost faith once. The battle is already won, claim ur victory, born winner @deshaunwatson.”
© Agence France-Presse
