*Reggie Bush is reclaiming his Heisman Trophy almost 14 years after relinquishing the coveted prize, according to a report by ESPN on Wednesday.
The former USC running back, who clinched college football’s most prestigious accolade in 2005, surrendered the honor in 2010 amidst university sanctions, stemming from an extensive investigation that concluded he had received impermissible benefits as a student-athlete.
“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,” Bush remarked in a statement to ESPN. “I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization.”
The dynamic shifts within college athletics played a pivotal role in the deliberations of the Heisman Trust.
“We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” expressed Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust, 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.”
The decision comes approximately three years after the NCAA granted student-athletes the ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL).
Bush showcased his talents at USC from 2003-05 before being drafted as the No. 2 overall pick by the Saints in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Now 39, Bush expressed his gratitude on Wednesday for being “honored to return to the Heisman family.”
With this reinstatement, USC now boasts eight Heisman Trophies, the most of any school in the country, surpassing Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame, each with seven.
“I am so happy for Reggie and the entire Trojan Family,” remarked USC president Carol Folt in a statement. “He won our hearts during his illustrious career and deserved to have his well-earned honor restored. We are looking forward to celebrating with him and his family and are proud we were able to stand with him as an advocate.”
In addition to Bush reclaiming his Heisman Trophy, USC will also receive a replica.
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