Houston Texans left tackle Rashad Butler went down in tonight's exhibition game with the Minnesota Vikings, apparently hurting his right elbow. When asked for an update, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said the injury "does not look good," according to reports from Tania Ganguli of the Houston Chronicle. The team has confirmed he will not return to the game, and the Chronicle's John McClain is indicating the injury might leave him out for the rest of the season.

Butler, a five-year veteran, is in the last year of his current contract with the Texans. He has played in 34 games in the last three seasons with the team. Earlier this preseason, Kubiak announced the team would be starting Derek Newton at right tackle and using Butler as a backup. Nevertheless, Butler remains important for depth, as he can play both tackle positions, and would be sorely missed if he is indeed out for the year.

For more on the Houston Texans, head over to Battle Red Blog. More news and analysis on the NFL as the regular season approaches can be found over at SB Nation's NFL hub as well as on SB Nation's YouTube Channel: