Reggie Bush’s 2005 Heisman Trophy to be officially reinstated

Former USC football star Reggie Bush is finally getting his 2005 Heisman Trophy back after a long battle. The Heisman Trust will formally reinstate Bush, 14 years after he voluntarily gave up his trophy due to major sanctions against USC.

With the landscape of college sports changing significantly with the introduction of NIL rights, Bush is being welcomed back into the Heisman family. He will receive his original trophy back, with a replica being given to USC. Additionally, Bush will be invited to all Heisman events starting in the 2024 season.

In a statement, Bush expressed his excitement about reuniting with his fellow Heisman winners and being part of the prestigious legacy of the Heisman Trophy. He also looks forward to working with the Heisman Trust to advance its values and mission.

The road to reinstatement was not easy for Bush. After an NCAA investigation in 2010 found that he had received impermissible benefits as a student-athlete, his Heisman was taken away, and USC had to vacate wins and nullify his stats. Despite being elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2023, Bush continued to fight for the return of his Heisman Trophy.

In August 2023, Bush announced a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA in hopes of forcing them to reinstate his records, potentially leading to the return of his trophy. Now, without the lawsuit being resolved, the Heisman Trust is reinstating Bush and returning his trophy. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact Bush’s standing with the NCAA and the ongoing lawsuit.