Reggie Bush reclaims Heisman Trophy, fourteen years after forfeiture.



The Heisman Trust announced on Wednesday the official "reinstatement" of Reggie Bush's 2005 Heisman Trophy, citing significant changes in college football. Bush had previously surrendered his trophy in 2010 amidst NCAA penalties against USC for his receipt of improper benefits during his tenure from 2003 to 2005.


In this decision, Bush will regain possession of the Heisman Trophy, while a replica will be returned to USC. He will also be welcomed back to future Heisman Trophy ceremonies, commencing from the 2024 season.


Expressing his excitement, Bush stated, "I'm thrilled to rejoin my fellow Heisman winners and contribute to the esteemed legacy of the Heisman Trophy. It's an honor to once again be part of the Heisman family, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the Heisman Trust to further its values and goals."


The decision to reinstate Reggie Bush's Heisman Trophy was the result of a thorough process by the Heisman Trust, which closely observed the significant changes in college athletics in recent times. These changes include the emergence of rules permitting student-athlete compensation, now considered a standard practice.


"We are delighted to reintegrate Reggie Bush into the Heisman family, acknowledging his remarkable achievements in college," stated Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust. "Considering the substantial shifts in college athletics, we concluded that now is the appropriate moment to reinstate the trophy for Reggie. We are thrilled to have him back."


Following the enactment of rules allowing athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness in 2021, Bush began advocating for the return of his trophy. In July 2021, he issued a statement criticizing the Heisman Trust, particularly highlighting Comerford's failure to respond to his calls.


Numerous Heisman winners have voiced support for Bush reclaiming the trophy, with notable endorsements from former Texas A&M star Johnny Manziel. Manziel, who pledged to boycott the Heisman Trophy ceremony until Bush's trophy was returned, expressed gratitude to the Heisman Trust on social media for "doing what's right" and welcoming Bush back into the Heisman community.