Redskins lose CB Chris Culliver for season to torn ACL

ASHBURN, Va. -- Washington Redskins cornerback Chris Culliver suffered a torn ACL in his right knee and will miss the rest of the season, a team source confirmed Thursday.

Culliver injured his knee in practice Thursday, jumping to defend a pass. It's a big blow to a team trying to stay in the thick of the NFC East race. Washington (4-6) hosts the first-place New York Giants (5-5) on Sunday.

The Redskins immediately feared the worst for Culliver and it was only a matter of time before having that fear confirmed by an MRI after practice.

Culliver was a key free-agent signee for Washington this past offseason, signing a four-year deal worth potentially $32 million. The Redskins expected him to be their No. 1 corner, but injuries impacted his play much of the season.

Culliver missed three games earlier this season because of swelling in his left knee, and another game due to a suspension. He also injured his shoulder this past week at Carolina. He underwent an MRI for that earlier this week and was awaiting a second opinion on the diagnosis.

The Redskins have battled one injury after another this season, especially in the secondary. The only player who has started every game in the secondary is safety Dashon Goldson.

Culliver is the sixth starter to be lost for the season for Washington, joining tight end Niles Paul, left guard Shawn Lauvao, center Kory Lichtensteiger, linebacker Junior Galette and safety Duke Ihenacho. Lichtensteiger, though, was placed on injured reserve/designated to return and could come back if the Redskins make the playoffs.