Bush, Williams meet again in joint practice

Bush said he and Williams cross paths at social functions sometimes and that they get along rather well.

"We actually hung out a little bit this offseason at some different events," Bush said. "We're fine. We talk like normal people. We don't worry about (the comparisons)."

Williams "has a long career ahead of him," Bush added. "He's going to be great in this league. All the best to him."

Bush surpassed 1,300 total yards and scored nine TDs, including one on a punt return, during his rookie season. In 2007, however, he played in only 12 games because of a knee injury. Given the opportunity to be the Saints' featured running back after Deuce McAllister got hurt, Bush struggled. He finished with 581 yards rushing, 417 yards receiving and six touchdowns. His longest play from scrimmage was a 25-yard reception.

"I know I'm not a bust," Bush said. "I know I'm far from it. I know there's a lot of hard work, focus, determination and patience involved. You have to go out there and continue to work your way through it."

Williams can relate to that.

During his rookie season, he was credited with 47 total tackles and 4.5 sacks. Last season, those numbers increased to 59 total tackles and 14 sacks. He also forced two fumbles in 2007, recovering one and scoring a touchdown.

Yet, while Williams' performance went a long way toward validating the Texans' decision to take him, Williams doesn't see it that way.

"I don't because when I look back on it ... there were a lot of things that were left on the field that could have been better and that could have helped me out and could have helped the team out," Williams said. "There is always room for improvement."

That's not to say his nearly 10-sack improvement from his rookie year didn't help his confidence.

When asked how many more sacks he might have this season, Williams discussed the numerous near misses he saw on film in 2007 and added, "That number could be tremendous."