Reggie Bush injury Monday night could keep him on sidelines for six weeks

Reggie Bush of the Saints broke his leg in New Orleans' victory over the 49ers Monday night. The Saints will miss the pass catching, running and punt return abilities of Reggie Bush for the next six weeks.

The New Orleans Saints had to battle high winds, an inspired San Francisco squad and an injury to running back Reggie Bush Monday night. But the defending Super Bowl champs prevailed over the 49ers, 25-22.

A source told the Associated Press on Tuesday that Bush was diagnosed with a broken right fibula and could miss six weeks. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter, as he tried to recover a muffed punt return.

It had been a long week for the former Heisman Trophy winner, as he decided to return college football's highest award to the Heisman Trust. This, following NCAA sanctions levied against his alma mater, the University of Southern California (USC), for Bush receiving improper benefits.

Now, the Saints must find a replacement for the running and pass catching abilities Bush brought to their offense. And they'll need someone to assume his punt return duties. Over the last two NFL seasons, Bush had rushed for nearly 800 yards and seven touchdowns, while hauling in nearly 100 receptions for 775 yards and another seven TDs.

Certainly, running back Pierre Thomas will find his workload increased and the talented wideouts at Drew Brees' disposal will see more throws. Perhaps kick returner Courtney Roby will assume the punt-return role, as the Saints get ready for the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday in the Superdome.