There was speculation after the Super Bowl that the Saints would release Bush or demand that he take a pay cut to avoid paying him the $8 million he was due in 2010, but Payton knocked that theory down in February when asked about it at the NFL Scouting Combine. Bush's versatility as a rusher, receiver and punt returner makes him a valued piece of Payton's high-powered offense, and Bush reported to training camp saying he was as healthy as he has been since his rookie year, which led to talk of a resurgent season for the fifth-year veteran.

Bush, who has rushed for more than 100 yards in only one game during his career, had only two carries for 14 yards in Week One. He also made five catches for 33 yards and returned three punts for just seven yards.