Reggie Bush is one of the most attractive free agent running backs on the market and some teams out there may be willing to pay a big price for him, as the Miami Dolphins are prepared to let him walk for a new contract.
According to ESPN.com, Bush is ready to leave Miami and the Detroit Lions appear to be the top option for the running back, as they need to upgrade their rushing attack behind Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson. Bush could also have interest from the Raiders and Cowboys, who have both lost running backs in free agency.
Bill Polian wrote on ESPN.com that Bush isn't worth much, writing: "He's a name, but at this stage in his career, he's a third-down guy."
While in Miami for two seasons, Bush shed the tag that he was not an every-down back and nearly rushed for 1,000 yards in two straight seasons. Bush is still an explosive player on offense and the Lions could offer him a chance to start after having issues at running back last season.
"Honestly, I still feel I have a lot to prove," the 6-foot, 200-pound running back told Playbook exclusively. "I have a lot of football left in me."
Over his career, Bush has gained 4,000 yards one the ground and caught 2,500 yards worth of passes, making him a valuable addition to any offense. Polian also spoke on ESPN Radio and said that Bush is not an every down back and may not cash in as he expects in free agency.
"I don't think he's going to have that big a market, and I think the market is going to be lower than people might anticipate," Polian said. "He's not a three-down back anymore. He's got seven years in, that's a lot of shelf life for a running back. He's had injuries. He's not a great blocker - although he tries hard, I'm not denigrating him in any way, his body isn't built to do that. He's really a specialized back at this stage."
Bush is only 28-years-old and after being used in spots with the Saints, he is not as beat up as other running backs his age. The Raiders and Cowboys could also be options as both teams need running backs, but the Lions appear to be the favorite. Bush played in every game while with the Dolphins and was healthy for the first time in his career, rushing for 2,072 yards and 12 touchdowns over the past two years.
Bush can get into the endzone with 50 touchdowns in his career, which includes 29 rush, 15 receiving and four return scores. The Lions ranked 23rd in rushing last season with Mikel Leshoure and Joique Bell getting most of the carries, but Bush would be a big upgrade over those two.
Bush has proven he can stay healthy and while he is 28-years-old, he can provide a range of skills to teams, including the Lions and Raiders.