Reggie Bush, the former University of Southern California (USC) football star, has had his Heisman Trophy reinstated 14 years after forfeiting it due to NCAA sanctions against USC. The Heisman Trust made the decision based on 'enormous changes' in college athletics and student athlete compensation becoming an accepted practice. Bush will be invited to all future Heisman Trophy ceremonies, and a replica of the trophy will be returned to USC.
Bush had been pushing for the return of his trophy in recent years, even going as far as suing the NCAA for defamation. The announcement from the Heisman Trust comes after significant NCAA sanctions against USC that found Bush had received improper benefits during his collegiate career.
Bush rushed for 1,740 yards and scored 19 total touchdowns as a junior in 2005, leading USC to a dominant run before falling short to Texas in the BCS national championship game at the Rose Bowl. Despite the controversy surrounding his Heisman win, Bush acted with integrity and in accordance with rules during his collegiate career.
The decision by the Heisman Trust marks a significant moment for college football and its history. The NCAA landscape has undergone enormous changes since 2010, allowing student athletes to receive compensation for their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This change in policy was a major factor in the Heisman Trust's decision to reinstate Bush.
Bush went on to play professional football for teams including the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills. He helped the Saints win their first Vince Lombardi trophy in Super Bowl XLIV.