"Passing on Bush would be a mistake for the Texans" - Scouts Inc - Houston Texans Message Board & Forum

**texanfan2002114** · 04-19-2006

With the 2006 NFL draft less then two weeks away, there is a lot of uncertainty at the top of the first round. However, there is one thing for certain, and that is that USC RB Reggie Bush should be the first overall selection.

The dynamo all-purpose back had a combined 2,890 yards last season as a junior. He rushed for 1,740 yards, caught 37 passes and averaged 9.9 yards per punt return and 17.6 yards per kickoff return. He is a big-time player who knows how to light up the scoreboard, scoring 19 touchdowns last season.

Everything about Bush says he is going to be a special football player. He is a threat any time he touches the ball. He can play many different roles within the offense and on special teams. He has excellent running skills and exceptional vision, and he runs with excellent lean and body control.

Is he small? Yes. Does that hinder him from breaking tackles? No. Bush is also one of the most elusive runners to come out of college in some time.

Speaking of size, it baffles me as to why a lot of experts want to knock Bush on his dimensions. Barry Sanders' size never hindered him. Marshall Faulk, Ahman Green and Priest Holmes are all under 6 feet tall. I understand Bush is 201 pounds, and the above-mentioned players are in the 210-215 range, but they weren't when they came into the NFL. Like them, Bush will add bulk to his frame and likely will end up eventually settling in at 210 pounds as a playing weight.

Speaking of Faulk, he is a nice player to compare Bush to. Both show excellent run skills and vision. Both are extremely elusive with the ball in their hands. Both catch the ball extremely well out of the backfield. In his prime, Faulk kept defensive coordinators up at night, something Bush will do from day one. Bush also brings the added dimension of his return skills and is more of a home run threat than Faulk ever was. Nonetheless, they have similar running attributes and styles.

If the Texans select him, what is the best way to use him? As with any young player, they would need to bring him along slowly. They would want to put the ball in his hands 15-20 times a game. They will look to accomplish that in many different ways. He will get five to seven carries a game early on. They will look to get him the ball another five times as a receiver out of the backfield. Add in a few punt returns, and the Texans have a guy who will be able to break the game wide open at any point.

A lot of experts have talked about Bush's not being a good pick for the Texans because they already have a solid No. 1 RB in Domanick Davis. The Texans would make a mistake by not taking Bush because rule No. 1 is, you always take the best player available regardless of position (and you don't draft for needs). It has also been proven time and time again in the NFL that having a two-headed monster at the running back position is a good thing. Davis has never been a durable player anyway, so having Bush could lessen his workload and keep him fresh late in games and late in the season.

Having two talented running backs would be a huge help to the Texans' offense, which finished the 2005 season ranked 30th in total offense (253.3 ypg) and 26th in points scored (16.3 ppg). How about Davis and Bush in the lineup at the same time? That would be scary. The Texans would have the ability to really use the split-back formation and have two credible receiving threats coming out of the backfield. They also would be able to utilize their three-receiver/two-back package. With the addition of wide receiver Eric Moulds to go along with Andre Johnson and potentially Jerome Mathis, this is a package that would give the Texans their most explosive unit.

In general, the addition of Bush opens up the field for everyone. Because of his skills set, he has to be accounted for on every play. His presence in the lineup will force teams to focus on him, opening up the field for the Texans' other offensive weapons.

So what are some factors that could prevent Bush from reaching his ultimate potential? First and foremost, I think we need to talk about expectations. If there is one thing that truly holds back any top-10 pick it is media, fans and organizations expecting too much too quickly.

Bush is not going to be a player who comes into the league and rushes for 100 yards and scores two touchdowns on a weekly basis. We are so used to seeing him run rampant through opposing defenses at the college level, so it is natural to think that will carry over.

At USC, Bush was the biggest fish in a smaller pond. In the NFL, he will still be a big fish, but it will be in a much bigger pond. That pond will include the likes of teams having multiple defenders who can run, chase and hit.

How will Bush deal with those expectations? Will he be able to handle on-the-field adversity? Will he be able to fight through the rough patches? I think he is a player with excellent work ethic, maturity and character, so he should be able to handle these situations well. However, it is important for people not to expect too much too early.

The other issue that could prevent him from "stardom" is how a team might use him, at least early on. It is natural to want to get him involved in every facet because he was the ultimate weapon as a college player. It is important that he is not asked to do too much, though.

One of the biggest mistakes organizations make is asking a player be the face of the organization before he is ready. From my days with the Browns, it was very apparent this was a mistake we made with quarterback Tim Couch and defensive tackle Gerard Warren. They weren't physically or mentally prepared to do some of the things we asked them to do. We built them up, but when you do that, you open yourself up to a lot of criticism if that player does not play up to his potential early in his career. That player then starts to feel the weight of the world on his shoulders.

Bush is also a little on the light side. He will need to mature physically and add bulk and strength to his frame. Overuse could result in injuries. One of the biggest setbacks for a young player is getting injured early in his career. It causes a player to miss important time on the field taking reps. Mental reps in the classroom are great, but I can't stress how important it is to be on the field working with your teammates.

There has been talk in recent days that the Texans are entertaining trade talk for the New York Jets (who have the No. 4 pick). Unless the deal is overwhelming, the Texans would be crazy to make the move. "A Bush in the hand is better than" … well, anyone else they could pick in the 2006 NFL draft.

Jeremy Green is director of pro scouting for Scouts Inc. He has been an NFL scout for 11 years, including two as director of pro personnel for the Cleveland Browns.

**Vinny** · 04-19-2006

add a link and cut it down to a quote please...thanks for sharing

**Kaiser Toro** · 04-19-2006

Scouts Inc provides no direction on what the Texans needs are nor what our current spend is. Everyone on this board know what he can do.

There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years.

tulexan · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

Scouts Inc provides no direction on what the Texans needs are nor what our current spend is. Everyone on this board know what he can do.

There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years.

You wouldn't listen to Bill Bellicheck? He was a Browns HC

Also, you are right. The first thing we need to do is increase our spending on our already expensive DL. We already have 4 or 5 expensive DLinemen, one more wouldn't hurt.

**texanfan2002114** · 04-19-2006

its an espn insider article located on espn.com. On the Nfl page titled "Green:Bush No.1". Also I thought it was a good article so I'm sorry that I didn't cut it down. Sorry Vinny!!

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/index?...lid=gn_NFL_NFL

El Amigo Invisible · 04-19-2006

Is Bush really an all purpose back? I know he looked like one against Fresno State.

**Kaiser Toro** · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by tulexan

You wouldn't listen to Bill Bellicheck? He was a Browns HC

Also, you are right. The first thing we need to do is increase our spending on our already expensive DL. We already have 4 or 5 expensive DLinemen, one more wouldn't hurt.

Did not realize Belicheck was a scout with the Browns, please share your knowledge.

tulexan · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years.

Never specified Browns scouts.

el toro · 04-19-2006

The Texans shouldn't take Bush because they already have a RB under a large contract but of course they should take a DE when they already have that covered. Predictable.

**Kaiser Toro** · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by tulexan

Never specified Browns scouts.

But I did and you quoted it.

tulexan · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

But I did and you quoted it.

Actually you never specified Browns scouts. You said that you weren't sure if you would trust what a former Brown would have to say given their great run in the past 50 years.

You never said that you wouldn't trust a Browns scout, you just said Brown.

**Kaiser Toro** · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by tulexan

Actually you never specified Browns scouts. You said that you weren't sure if you would trust what a former Brown would have to say given their great run in the past 50 years.

You never said that you wouldn't trust a Browns scout, you just said Brown.

Not in the mood to debate semantics or intent, I've got a basketball game to play in 50 minutes.

"There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years."

tulexan · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

Not in the mood to debate semantics or intent, I've got a basketball game to play in 50 minutes.

"There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years."

Former Browns does not necessarily imply that you are referring to former Browns scouts.

yako0o · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

Scouts Inc provides no direction on what the Texans needs are nor what our current spend is. Everyone on this board know what he can do.

There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years.

I agree Kaiser, and theres a reason there "Former" Scouts.

**kiwitexansfan** · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by el toro

The Texans shouldn't take Bush because they already have a RB under a large contract but of course they should take a DE when they already have that covered. Predictable.

What the?? are you trying to tell me that Weaver + Peek/Babin/Kalu is a solid defensvie end pairing?? It is only covered as in there is bodies in those positions. It is still a serious need area in terms of someone who has shown they can get pressure on the quarterback.

Tale Gator · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by tulexan

Former Browns does not necessarily imply that you are referring to former Browns scouts.

He really touched a nerve there.

**Kaiser Toro** · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by tulexan

Former Browns does not necessarily imply that you are referring to former Browns scouts.

Nope, I ain't gonna do it.

el toro · 04-19-2006

:yawn

At least that dude has sniffed the NFL.

tulexan · 04-19-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kaiser Toro

Nope, I ain't gonna do it.

Come on, just admit your vagueness. I know what you were trying to say, but it was a little misleading.

04-19-2006	#1
texanfan2002114 Subscribed Contributor Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: On the front row in the endzone!!! Age: 36 Posts: 1,097 Rep Power: 613	"Passing on Bush would be a mistake for the Texans" - Scouts Inc With the 2006 NFL draft less then two weeks away, there is a lot of uncertainty at the top of the first round. However, there is one thing for certain, and that is that USC RB Reggie Bush should be the first overall selection. The dynamo all-purpose back had a combined 2,890 yards last season as a junior. He rushed for 1,740 yards, caught 37 passes and averaged 9.9 yards per punt return and 17.6 yards per kickoff return. He is a big-time player who knows how to light up the scoreboard, scoring 19 touchdowns last season. Everything about Bush says he is going to be a special football player. He is a threat any time he touches the ball. He can play many different roles within the offense and on special teams. He has excellent running skills and exceptional vision, and he runs with excellent lean and body control. Is he small? Yes. Does that hinder him from breaking tackles? No. Bush is also one of the most elusive runners to come out of college in some time. Speaking of size, it baffles me as to why a lot of experts want to knock Bush on his dimensions. Barry Sanders' size never hindered him. Marshall Faulk, Ahman Green and Priest Holmes are all under 6 feet tall. I understand Bush is 201 pounds, and the above-mentioned players are in the 210-215 range, but they weren't when they came into the NFL. Like them, Bush will add bulk to his frame and likely will end up eventually settling in at 210 pounds as a playing weight. Speaking of Faulk, he is a nice player to compare Bush to. Both show excellent run skills and vision. Both are extremely elusive with the ball in their hands. Both catch the ball extremely well out of the backfield. In his prime, Faulk kept defensive coordinators up at night, something Bush will do from day one. Bush also brings the added dimension of his return skills and is more of a home run threat than Faulk ever was. Nonetheless, they have similar running attributes and styles. If the Texans select him, what is the best way to use him? As with any young player, they would need to bring him along slowly. They would want to put the ball in his hands 15-20 times a game. They will look to accomplish that in many different ways. He will get five to seven carries a game early on. They will look to get him the ball another five times as a receiver out of the backfield. Add in a few punt returns, and the Texans have a guy who will be able to break the game wide open at any point. A lot of experts have talked about Bush's not being a good pick for the Texans because they already have a solid No. 1 RB in Domanick Davis. The Texans would make a mistake by not taking Bush because rule No. 1 is, you always take the best player available regardless of position (and you don't draft for needs). It has also been proven time and time again in the NFL that having a two-headed monster at the running back position is a good thing. Davis has never been a durable player anyway, so having Bush could lessen his workload and keep him fresh late in games and late in the season. Having two talented running backs would be a huge help to the Texans' offense, which finished the 2005 season ranked 30th in total offense (253.3 ypg) and 26th in points scored (16.3 ppg). How about Davis and Bush in the lineup at the same time? That would be scary. The Texans would have the ability to really use the split-back formation and have two credible receiving threats coming out of the backfield. They also would be able to utilize their three-receiver/two-back package. With the addition of wide receiver Eric Moulds to go along with Andre Johnson and potentially Jerome Mathis, this is a package that would give the Texans their most explosive unit. In general, the addition of Bush opens up the field for everyone. Because of his skills set, he has to be accounted for on every play. His presence in the lineup will force teams to focus on him, opening up the field for the Texans' other offensive weapons. So what are some factors that could prevent Bush from reaching his ultimate potential? First and foremost, I think we need to talk about expectations. If there is one thing that truly holds back any top-10 pick it is media, fans and organizations expecting too much too quickly. Bush is not going to be a player who comes into the league and rushes for 100 yards and scores two touchdowns on a weekly basis. We are so used to seeing him run rampant through opposing defenses at the college level, so it is natural to think that will carry over. At USC, Bush was the biggest fish in a smaller pond. In the NFL, he will still be a big fish, but it will be in a much bigger pond. That pond will include the likes of teams having multiple defenders who can run, chase and hit. How will Bush deal with those expectations? Will he be able to handle on-the-field adversity? Will he be able to fight through the rough patches? I think he is a player with excellent work ethic, maturity and character, so he should be able to handle these situations well. However, it is important for people not to expect too much too early. The other issue that could prevent him from "stardom" is how a team might use him, at least early on. It is natural to want to get him involved in every facet because he was the ultimate weapon as a college player. It is important that he is not asked to do too much, though. One of the biggest mistakes organizations make is asking a player be the face of the organization before he is ready. From my days with the Browns, it was very apparent this was a mistake we made with quarterback Tim Couch and defensive tackle Gerard Warren. They weren't physically or mentally prepared to do some of the things we asked them to do. We built them up, but when you do that, you open yourself up to a lot of criticism if that player does not play up to his potential early in his career. That player then starts to feel the weight of the world on his shoulders. Bush is also a little on the light side. He will need to mature physically and add bulk and strength to his frame. Overuse could result in injuries. One of the biggest setbacks for a young player is getting injured early in his career. It causes a player to miss important time on the field taking reps. Mental reps in the classroom are great, but I can't stress how important it is to be on the field working with your teammates. There has been talk in recent days that the Texans are entertaining trade talk for the New York Jets (who have the No. 4 pick). Unless the deal is overwhelming, the Texans would be crazy to make the move. "A Bush in the hand is better than" … well, anyone else they could pick in the 2006 NFL draft. Jeremy Green is director of pro scouting for Scouts Inc. He has been an NFL scout for 11 years, including two as director of pro personnel for the Cleveland Browns.

04-19-2006	#2
Vinny shiny happy fan Join Date: Apr 2004 Age: 49 Posts: 20,714 Rep Power: 55750	add a link and cut it down to a quote please...thanks for sharing __________________ http://twitter.com/#!/TexansTalk "A nation of sheep begets a government of wolves" - Edward R. Murrow

04-19-2006	#3
Kaiser Toro Native Mod Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Straight Outta Austin Age: 43 Posts: 15,895 Rep Power: 20164	Scouts Inc provides no direction on what the Texans needs are nor what our current spend is. Everyone on this board know what he can do. There seems to be plenty of former Browns scouts doing scouting services these days. I am not sure if I would listen to any former Browns given their amazing run at success in the last 50 years. __________________ Texans 2012: Kidz II Men

04-19-2006	#5
texanfan2002114 Subscribed Contributor Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: On the front row in the endzone!!! Age: 36 Posts: 1,097 Rep Power: 613	its an espn insider article located on espn.com. On the Nfl page titled "Green:Bush No.1". Also I thought it was a good article so I'm sorry that I didn't cut it down. Sorry Vinny!! http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/index?...lid=gn_NFL_NFL Last edited by texanfan2002114; 04-19-2006 at 08:14 PM.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

04-19-2006	#6
El Amigo Invisible All Pro Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 571 Rep Power: 8	Is Bush really an all purpose back? I know he looked like one against Fresno State.

04-19-2006	#9
el toro All Pro Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 509 Rep Power: 8	The Texans shouldn't take Bush because they already have a RB under a large contract but of course they should take a DE when they already have that covered. Predictable.

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)

Remove advertisements Sponsored links