Reggie Bush misses returning punts, so he asked to be included in the 49ers' punt-return competition.
“It was my idea,” Bush told CSNBayArea.com. “I told the coaches I wanted to return punts again. And they were excited about it. We’re still working at it, still chipping away. And we look forward to being an all-around great special teams.”
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During his five years with the Saints, Bush was often in the backfield handling punts. He returned 92, averaged 7.8 yards per attempt and scored four touchdowns — including three in 2008 alone.
He returned six punts in his first season with the Dolphins in 2011 but hasn't had a return since for Miami or Detroit. Now, he is ready to field punts again.
“Getting out there and catching punts, I didn’t feel like I was missing a beat or gotten rusty,” he said. “I’m excited. I just think it’s another challenge for me and another opportunity for me to go out and showcase my skills.”
Perhaps the 49ers will feel the same way.