Houston Texans star linebacker Brian Cushing expressed confidence that he'll be ready by the first game.

Cushing dealt with knee and leg injuries that prematurely ended his season last year.

He hasn't played since last October.

"I know I’ll be ready," Cushing told the Texans' official website. "I know when it’s go-time, and I need to ramp it up and get on the field, I’ll be there."

Cushing's return date is unspecified.

"I’m still working out every day," Cushing said. "I’m just trying to be the best I can possibly be, come time for the camp. Come time for the season. The training staff’s done an unbelievable job."

In 2012, Cushing tore his anterior cruciate ligament.

"It’s been a tough two years, but I’m ready to put it behind me and have a great year," Cushing said. "I feel good, and I’m just excited about the opportunity and the things ahead of us for this team."

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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun