SPORTS
Reggie Bush Regains His 2005 Heisman Trophy 14 Years After Benefits Scandal
reggiebush/Instagram
Retired NFL running back Reggie Bush has regained the Heisman Trophy he won in 2005 during his college career at the University of Southern California, after it was revoked amid an improper benefits scandal.
In 2010, Bush’s family was accused of improperly receiving benefits from an agent while he was still a student athlete. Bush was no longer invited to Heisman ceremonies, and USC surrendered the replica trophy it kept on display.
The Heisman Trophy Trust on Wednesday said it was reinstating Bush’s status as a Heisman Trophy winner following enormous changes in the college football landscape in recent years. In 2021, the U.S. Supreme court dealt a blow to the NCAA’s amateurism model, and opened the door to student athlete compensation, including allowing players to be paid for their name, image, and likeness.
“We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” Michael Comerford, President of The Heisman Trophy Trust, said in a statement. We considered the enormous changes in college athletics over the last several years in deciding that now is the right time to reinstate the Trophy for Reggie. We are so happy to welcome him back.”
Bush posted a photo of his trophy back in his hands on Wednesday, writing that, No one can take from you what God has for you.
“This reinstatement is not only a personal victory but also a validation of the tireless efforts of my supporters and advocates who have stood by me throughout this arduous journey, Bush said in a statement.
“I want to make it abundantly clear that I have always acted with integrity and in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the NCAA,” Bush said. “The allegations brought against me were unfounded and unsupported by evidence, and I am grateful that the truth is finally prevailing.”
Bush was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame last year, in honor of his legendary college career.
He was the second overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, landing with the New Orleans Saints. Before retiring in 2017, he played for New Orleans, Miami, Detroit, San Francisco and Buffalo.
TMX contributed to this article.
