Cincinnati Bengals RB Kenny Irons injured his left knee during the team’s preseason opener Thursday night and was seen on crutches following the game, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Irons looked to be the change-of-pace back behind Rudi Johnson and Kenny Watson, possibly even pushing Watson for the backup role.

Irons was examined by team doctors in the training room at Ford Field. Head coach Marvin Lewis confirmed the injury but had no further information. Irons is scheduled for an MRI.

Update: According to Bengals.com, the MRI revealed that Irons has a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, thus ending his season.

The team said in a news release that a full recovery is exptected and Irons should be ready for next spring’s workout.

Sources: Rotoworld.com, Cincinnati Enquerer, Profootballtalk, Bengals.com. Aug. 10 – 8:59 a.m. et. Updated 4:59 p.m. et