Reggie Bush to get 2005 Heisman Trophy back as former USC Trojans star wins long battle

 The Heisman Trust is expected to announce the return of Bush's trophy on Wednesday, per ESPN:

 

 

According to ESPN, the Heisman Trust is expected to announce on Wednesday that it will return the 2005 Heisman Trophy to Reggie Bush. The former USC running back had been stripped of his Heisman award due to an NCAA investigation that found Bush and his family members had received improper benefits during his time with the Trojans.

 

The Heisman Trust had previously stated that it would restore Bush's award if the NCAA reinstated his records from the 2005 season. However, Bush filed a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA last year, disputing a claim made by the organization's spokesperson in 2021 that he was involved in "pay-for-play arrangements." The Heisman Trust's announcement on Wednesday marks a change in its position and is attributed to the "fundamental changes in college athletics," including the acceptance of student-athlete compensation.

 

In his statement to ESPN, Bush expressed his delight at rejoining the Heisman family and being associated with the prestigious Heisman Trophy legacy. He also stated his eagerness to collaborate with the Heisman Trust in promoting the organization's values and mission.

 

Bush rushed for 1,740 yards with 16 touchdowns and also caught 37 passes for 478 yards and two touchdowns in 2005 for a USC team that was unbeaten until an epic Rose Bowl loss to Texas in the BCS Championship Game. After an 11-year NFL career, he returned to a place of prominence in college football as an analyst with Fox in a role that he held up until the 2023 season.

 

With the bronzed stiff-armer back in Bush's hands, USC officially retakes first place in college football's Heisman Trophy hierarchy, with eight total. Notre Dame, Ohio State and Oklahoma each have seven.

 

USC Heisman Trophy Winners - All-Time:

 

Mike Garrett

1968 O. J. Simpson

1979 Charles White

1981 Marcus Allen

2002 Carson Palmer

2004 Matt Leinart

2005 Reggie Bush

2022 Caleb Williams