As Rosenthal was writing his post today regarding the connection between Reggie Bush’s most recent social media session and his eventual departure from the Saints, yours truly was making the case during PFT Live for the conclusion that Bush wants out. (Rosenthal claims that his Internet connection prevented him from watching today’s PFT Live. We believe that, but only if he means he chose not to use his Internet connection to access today’s PFT Live.)
If Bush wants out, he doesn’t have to do much to make it happen. Indeed, he simply needs to do nothing at all.
With an $11.8 million salary that becomes guaranteed as of Week One (if the rules relating to termination pay apply in 2011) — or sooner if he suffers a season-ending injury during post-lockout workouts — the Saints will want to push Bush’s situation to a resolution sooner rather than later. The choices are simple; cut him or trade him. And since no other team will want to inherit a one-year, $11.8 million contract for a glorified third-down tailback and punt returner, no trade can happen without Bush agreeing to a new deal. So if he simply refuses to redo his deal, he won’t be traded.
As mentioned during PFT Live, I’m intrigued by the possibility of Bush joining the Rams, where he would add sizzle to the franchise and provide much-needed relief for workhorse Steven Jackson. Other intriguing possibilities include the Dolphins, Steelers, Colts, Chargers, Giants, Redskins, Bears, Packers, and Vikings. We would have added the Seahawks to the list, but coach Pete Carroll’s failure to defend Bush last year when the USC situation hit the fan could be an impediment — along with the perception that Seahawks players don’t really register on the national radar screen.
Either way, if Bush has decided he wants out of New Orleans, he doesn’t have to say or do anything to make it happen. He merely needs to do nothing.