By most measurement, Reggie Bush has settled into life as a role player for the Saints this season quietly, and somewhat successfully.
He’s averaging 4.1 yards per carry in limited work, had his best punt return of the season against the Jets, and even has reportedly improved his blocking. (Although his punt returns overall have been poor.)
The one problem Bush can’t seem to shake is ball security. He fumbled for the third time this season against the Jets, which set off his coach. Sean Payton “repeatedly barked at Bush on the ensuing Jets’ touchdown drive,” according to Jeff Duncan of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Payton defended Bush on Monday, but he wasn’t as forgiving during the game.
Bush fumbled with over nine minutes left in the third quarter, and only touched the ball one more time on the following five drives.
And while Bush is largely doing a fine job helping out the Saints offense, he’s watched as teammates Mike Bell, Pierre Thomas, Devery Henderson, Marques Colston, and Jeremy Shockey take turns in starring roles.