Reggie Bush Lands in Miami; Haynesworth Traded to Pats

Added on Jul 28, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

The truncated free agency period continues at a rapid fire pace. Several more moves took place late yesterday and early today, highlighted by Reggie Bush’s trade to Miami. Bush agreed to terms on a two-year contract worth $10 million. No compensation for the Saints was announced. In other trade news, the Redskins shipped troubled defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to New England.

It was clear Bush would not return to the Saints in 2011. He was owed $11.8 million, way too much for a part-time running back. They also drafted former Alabama stud Mark Ingram in April, which signaled they were moving on from one Heisman Trophy winner to another.

With both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams free agents, the Dolphins needed to fill the void in their backfield. Bush’s role has yet to be defined, although based on the contract he signed, it’s safe to assume he’ll continue to be a third-down specialist and punt returner.

Speaking of high-paid disappointments, Albert Haynesworth’s tumultuous stint in D.C. is mercifully over after being dealt to New England for a 2013 fifth-round draft pick. The same guy who inked a 7-year, $100 million deal in 2009 was had for a mid-round pick two years later. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.

Ironically, Haynesworth’s major beef in Washington was playing nose tackle in a 3-4 defense. The Patriots also play a 3-4, although it’s presumed Albert will play outside rather than inside to take advantage of his pass-rushing skills.

Bill Belichick runs a tight ship, so maybe Haynesworth will set aside his childish antics and behave like a professional. He accumulated 14.5 sacks in 2007 and 2008 while with the Titans, but saw that number dip to 6.5 during his two seasons in the nation’s capital.

Bottom line: it’s a low risk, high reward move for the Pats, especially since the price tag was so low. Belichick has worked his magic with malcontents like Corey Dillon and Randy Moss. By comparison, Haynesworth should be a walk in the park.

Source: NFL.com