HOUSTON -- Texans rookie linebacker Brian Cushing was named AFC defensive player of the week. Against Cincinnati on Sunday, Cushing forced two fumbles, and had a game clinching interception--the first of his career.

"Anytime something like that happens, it’s special," Cushing said. "It’s an honor. I’m real happy about it. Of course, it doesn’t mean anything if I don’t come out and perform again this week.”

"He’s really played extremely well and earned the respect of his teammates," head coach Gary Kubiak noted. "He’s been exceptional and that’s a nice honor. It’s a heck of a league and you’ve got to play pretty good football to get that honor. I’m sure his teammates are proud of him, I know he feels pretty good.”

Fellow linebacker DeMeco Ryans, who took the rookie under his wing, beamed like a proud parent in describing Cushing's performance.

"I’m proud", Ryans said. "Especially any time a linebacker gets an award I’m proud of him. It’s great that he got defensive player of the week for our team, and Kevin Bentley got special teams player, so I’m proud when we can get the personal accolades.”