Reggie Bush, former star running back for the University of Southern California (USC), is reclaiming his place as the recipient of the prestigious Heisman Memorial Trophy for the 2005 season.
The decision to reinstate Bush’s award was announced by the Heisman Trust on Wednesday, marking the culmination of a lengthy process that considered the evolving landscape of college athletics.
Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust, expressed the organization’s excitement in welcoming Bush back into the Heisman family, acknowledging his remarkable achievements during his collegiate career.
The decision reflects a recognition of the significant changes in college athletics, particularly regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation for student-athletes.
Bush’s original Heisman victory came in 2005, a season in which he showcased his exceptional talent on the football field, rushing for 1,740 yards and scoring 18 total touchdowns.
However, in 2010, Bush voluntarily relinquished the award after an NCAA investigation revealed violations related to impermissible benefits received during his college tenure.
Notably, the landscape of college sports has undergone substantial transformations since Bush’s departure from USC.
The introduction of NIL rules has allowed student-athletes to benefit from their likeness, a change that has prompted reconsideration of past penalties.
Bush, who has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, has been vocal about his pursuit of justice and accountability from the NCAA.
He filed a lawsuit against the organization, asserting that the allegations against him were unfounded and unsupported by evidence.
In response to the decision to reinstate his Heisman Trophy, Bush expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his advocates and emphasized his commitment to integrity throughout his collegiate career.
He asserted that the truth has prevailed and expressed hope that his reinstatement would pave the way for positive change in college athletics.
With Bush’s reinstatement, USC solidifies its position as the college football program with the most Heisman Trophy winners, boasting a total of eight recipients.
The announcement of Bush’s reinstatement has been met with widespread acclaim, with fellow athletes and supporters applauding the Trust for rectifying what many perceive as an injustice.
Former Heisman winner Johnny Manziel expressed gratitude to the Trust for recognizing Bush’s contributions to the sport and welcomed him back into the Heisman fraternity.
Renowned attorney, Ben Crump, also reacted to Bush’s reinstatement on Instagram as follows:
“I’m very grateful that our Legal team was able to help Reggie Bush get his #heismantrophy back! @reggiebush was deprived of the rightful honor of having his #HeismanTrophy for nearly 15 years. Now that period is over. I am so glad to see this #recordbreaking player for the University of Southern California reunited with his Heisman and have a piece of his legacy restored!”
Following his celebrated college career, Bush went on to have a successful tenure in the NFL, contributing to multiple teams and earning accolades such as a Super Bowl championship with the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV.
