HOUSTON -- As he sat on a training table at Ralph Wilson Stadium, Owen Daniels already knew the grim diagnosis: A torn ACL in his right knee would end his season.

"I knew right away," Daniels told Local 2 from his weekly radio show in Clear Lake. "I put my foot in the ground on a route I've run hundreds of times, and my knee just crumpled. Believe me, if I could get up, I would. It's tough, but I'll deal with it, and be ready to go next year."

For Daniels, the timing couldn't be worse. He was on his way to another pro-bowl season, and probably due a huge contract at season end. Perhaps even more frustrating, the team is rolling along at 5-3.

"I want to be a part of the team, contributing," Daniels said. "We've never been to the playoffs, and I wanted to be there for our first playoff appearance. I contributed as much as I could for eight games, and it's tough to be unable to help. I'll bounce back. I'll be alright."

Just as surprising to Daniels as the injury itself, has been the outpouring of support for Owen Daniels the person, not just the football player.

"It's been unbelievable. I've heard from friends, and people I don't know. I hate being in this position, but I appreciate it."

Head coach Gary Kubiak among those wistful as well.

"I just feel bad for him. Boy, he was having a tremendous season—a special football season and we’re going to miss him big time. He’ll get well. He’ll be back. He’s a worker. He’ll be back better than ever.”