I have a feeling Bush might not be wearing a dolphins jersey come week one of the regular season. Just a hunch but Ireland understands a few things that the average fan doesn't take into consideration.
1. If I am not mistaken Bush is going to be a FA at the end of next year, and there is zero chance we are going to shell out big bucks to resign him. The only way we get value for him is trading him before the season starts while he is coming off his best year as a pro.
2. Running backs rarely have two good back to back seasons like Reggie had last year. Combine that with the fact that Marshall is no longer with the team and now you will see more and more teams crowding the box. Running lanes are going to be harder to find. I really don't see him putting up 5 ypc or rushing for any where close to 1000 yards.
3. The dolphins have a solid line of replacements. If Miller doesn't look totally lost during preseason and Slaton stays healthy Bush in not a necessity.
4. Most importantly Ireland understands this is not our SB year. We are still rebuilding and need more parts. Reggie will not be here when we get it all together but if we can trade him for value, the pick or player we trade him for might be.
The way I see it is Ireland will be searching for a few teams that have some good depth at WR, and if one of those teams lose a RB during the preseason he will try and make a trade. If not then any team willing to give up a 3rd round pick or maybe even a 4th will get Reggie. Just a hunch, but I think it is the way Ireland sees football. JMO