Bring Up Bumpus

by: Michael Steffes

There is some speculation, and maybe even some expectation that the Seahawks will be making a roster move before Sunday. You can hear me talk more about this in this weeks podcast, but I thought I would post a bit on it too.

I expect the only roster move left to be made is activating Michael Bumpus to the 53 man roster. There are several reasons why this makes sense...

First off, the team feels comfortable that Logan Payne and Courtney Taylor can play any of the WR positions. I wouldn't expect the team to move Taylor, they are looking for him to focus on what he is doing and do it more consistently. Payne is the likely choice to become the split end this week. That opens up the slot for Michael Bumpus. Bumpus is a prototypical slot receiver, and he knows the system better than the two new guys.

Second.... Bumpus is the only logical choice to return punts. Seneca Wallace is a possibility, but it might take a some sort of stress-induced blackout from Holmgren to feel comfortable doing that. Plus, Michael Bumpus is a heck of punt returner.

In his freshman season he was named to the all Pac-10 2nd team as a punt returner. And the all Pac-10 freshman team as a punt returner and wide receiver. In his first game returning punts, vs Colorado, he had 6 returns for 61 yards.

He improved in his Soph season. He had an 87 yard punt return TD vs Nevada, part of a day when he had 167 total punt return yards. He missed the final four games, but was still an honorable mention on the all Pac-10 team as a punt returner.

Not only did he return punts well again as a Junior, but he actually stepped up and punted for the team after an injury knocked out the regular punter at UCLA. Jon Ryan watch out! He battled through some injuries again, but was still one of the top returners in 06 in the Pac-10.

Clearly, he has the experience for this position, and considering the rest of the candidates, it only makes sense. Expect to see Bumpus activated for Sunday, the only question is who will be sent packing? ~END~