The hits keep coming for the 2006 NFL draft class. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Detroit Lions have released veteran running back Reggie Bush. This can’t be seen as much of a surprise considering he was set to count $5.3 million against the cap in 2015 and only put up 297 rushing yards in 11 games this past season.
With Bush now entering the open market, it’s likely that youngster Theo Riddick will take over for him as the Lions third-down and pass-catching back next year. Riddick only attempted 20 rush attempts last season, but he did add 34 receptions for 316 yards and four touchdowns on the year.
Seemingly attempting to make a move to retain Ndamukong Suh, the Lions saved just over $1.7 million by releasing Bush. It also means that the team will likely look for a running back in the draft or find a cheap veteran to play alongside both Riddick and Joique Bell.
As it relates to Bush, he hits the open market having tallied nearly 9,000 yards from scrimmage and 53 total touchdowns in nine NFL seasons. Considering Bush turns 30 later in February, it’s hard to imagine that there will be a huge market for his services. This is only magnified by the fact that he has missed seven games over the past two seasons and hasn’t put up more than 227 rush attempts in any one season.
Though, Bush will likely get some play as a third-down back and secondary receiving option from teams with an established starter.
Photo: USA Today