From Where We Are

Reggie Bush recaptures Heisman

In 2010 Reggie Bush relinquished his Heisman after receiving benefits under the table during his Trojan career. Now in 2024 where NIL (name image and likeness) is a priority for college athletes, Bush will again receive his Heisman after 14 years.

Reggie Bush sits at the Fox Sports analyst desk during USC's game against Utah in October 2019.
Reggie Bush sits at the Fox Sports analyst desk during USC's game against Utah in October 2019. (Photo by Ling Luo)

This Wednesday morning the Heisman Trust announced that controversial USC legend Reggie Bush’s 2005 Heisman will be reinstated. Additionally, he will be invited to all future ceremonies, starting this upcoming 2024 season.

Bush received his prestigious award this morning at the Trust summit meeting in Florida. Fifteen former Heisman winners including former Florida Gator Tim Tebow and former UT Austin Longhorn Ricky Williams were present for Bush’s reinstatement.

In a published article from ESPN, President of the Heisman Trophy Trust, Michael Comerford said: “We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments. 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.”

As NIL entered the college landscape, Bush campaigned for the reinstatement of his Heisman arguing that college athletes were now able to profit off their name, image, and likeness.

Many fans of Bush stood beside him throughout this 14 year long journey. His supporters included USC donor, Brian Kennedy. In an effort to campaign for the reinstatement of his award, Kennedy introduced 15 billboards across freeways and busy intersections across Los Angeles.

An Instagram post from Reggie Bush reads: “No one can take from you what God has for you.”

For Annenberg Media, I’m Joel Robles.