The NFL legend Reggie Bush is being reunited with his Heisman Trophy, which was rightfully won twenty years ago. After a great season with USC, the running back received the honor in 2005.
However, half a decade later, Bush voluntarily forfeited the trophy after his name was involved in the sanctions for infractions and was later found guilty by the NCAA Infraction Committee of receiving gifts from the agents while having a Trojans career between 2003 and 2005.
On Wednesday, while highlighting the significant change in collegiate football, the young college players were now able to attract fame and wealth through their names, images, and likeness. The Heisman Trust announced the formal “reinstatement” of the New Orleans Saints legend’s trophy. Starting in 2024, Bush will now be invited to all future Heisman Trophy ceremonies.
Personally, I'm thrilled to reunite with my fellow Heisman winners and be a part of the storied legacy of the Heisman Trophy, and I'm honored to return to the Heisman family. I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization. In a released statement to ESPN, Bush said
This major decision by The Heisman Trust came because of the immense support shown by other Heisman Trophy winners for the former NFL running back. Johnny Manziel even threatened to boycott the Heisman ceremonies until his fellow winner, Bush, was reunited with his 2005 trophy.
Reggie Bush’s trophy finds its way back to him
Bush’s quest for his Heisman trophy began in 2021, after the enactment of the regulations, allowing college players to profit from their name, image, and likeness.
In July 2021, the legendary running back released a statement expressing his disapproval of the Heisman Trust, including President Michael Comerford, for not returning his calls.
If it weren’t for the recent support of his fellow winners, Bush may never have been considered. In addition to Manziel, other winners such as Matt Leinart and Tim Brown have also been quite outspoken about Bush’s trophy return.
After this return, USC became the school with the highest count of Heisman trophies, eight per se, across the country. A replica of Bush’s 2005 trophy will also be given to the USC Trojans.
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