Houston Texans running back Ben Tate has been placed on the team's injured reserve list, ending his campaign.

Tate first cracked his ribs during the week eight loss to the Kansas City Chiefs but has since played through the pain. However, after injuring another last Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, the Texans have taken the decision to cut short his season.

The back is the team's second choice, with starter Arian Foster also out for the remainder of the year through injury.

Texans coach Wade Phillips told the club's official site: "I said all along that Ben's a really tough son-of-a-gun. A lot of guys won't get shot up for anything.

"But now Dennis Johnson will start. He's been our backup guy but we have three running backs available."

Fourth-year Tate rushed for 771 yards this season from 181 carries. He scored four rushing touchdowns.