Bush Is Latest to Have Surgery

Running back Reggie Bush on Thursday became the eighth USC player to have surgery since the Trojans defeated Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl on Jan. 4.

Bush had arthroscopic shoulder surgery to alleviate bursitis, a USC spokesman said. Coach Pete Carroll said Bush would have a role in spring practice, which begins March 22.

“Most of these are just normal procedures because there are issues guys have during the season that you put off,” Carroll said Friday. “The majority of these are quick recoveries.”

Running back Hershel Dennis (knee) had reconstructive surgery in January and is expected to miss next season. Quarterback Matt Leinart (elbow) will not participate in spring practice and defensive lineman Frostee Rucker (toe) could be limited, Carroll said.

Running back LenDale White (ankle), safety Darnell Bing (shoulder), cornerback Eric Wright (knee) and punter Tom Malone (knee) are expected to be available for spring workouts.

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-- Gary Klein