Reggie Bush Finally Gets Vindication With 2005 Heisman Reinstatement

In a shocking turn of events, former USC star running back Reggie Bush is getting back his Heisman Trophy for the 2005 season. 

On Wednesday, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that the Heisman Trust announced the formal reinstatement of Bush’s Heisman Trophy, highlighting the “enormous changes in the college football landscape.”

Bush was a superstar running back at USC between 2003-05 and helped make the Trojans must-see TV every week. The two-time All-American won the Heisman Trophy in 2005. He had a ridiculous junior season, rushing for 1,740 yards and 16 touchdowns on 200 carries.

The former Trojans running back was a factor in the passing game (37 receptions for 478 yards and two touchdowns) and on special teams (493 kick return yards, 179 punt return yards, and a punt return touchdown). 

He was the only choice to receive the college football’s most prestigious award that season. But years later, Bush forfeited his Heisman Trophy in 2010 after USC was hit with sanctions. Within those sanctions, it was reported that Bush received “improper benefits” from his time at USC.

Nonetheless, times have changed in college sports over the last few years, with the introduction of NIL. 

Bush, who will be getting his Heisman Trophy back along with a replica heading back to USC, is happy to be welcomed back to the Heisman family.

"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 said (h/t ESPN’s Pete Thamel). "I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization."

The former USC running back will now be invited again to all Heisman ceremonies starting with this coming season.