Reggie Bush, the former USC football star, has seen his portrait reinstated at the Heisman House, marking a significant turn in his relationship with the prestigious award. Bush shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing himself re-hanging his portrait, which is part of a promotional campaign for Nissan.
Bush’s Heisman Trophy, which he won in 2005, was vacated following allegations that USC football violated NCAA regulations during his tenure. The controversy centered around Bush receiving impermissible benefits, which led to his award being stripped and his exclusion from Heisman events. After a prolonged absence, Bush has now been formally and informally reinstated as a Heisman Trophy winner, with his portrait’s return symbolizing this restored recognition.
In April, Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm about Bush’s reinstatement. “We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” Comerford said, as reported by NFL.com. “Considering the significant changes in college athletics over recent years, we felt it was the right time to reinstate the Trophy for Reggie. We are delighted to have him back.
Reggie Bush’s impact on USC football was substantial. During the 2005 season, he played a pivotal role in leading the Trojans to the national championship game, where they were narrowly defeated by Texas and quarterback Vince Young in one of the most memorable games in college football history.
That year, Bush accumulated over 2,000 total yards from scrimmage and scored 18 touchdowns. His performance earned him 784 first-place votes for the Heisman, which ranks among the highest in the award’s history.
Bush’s Heisman-winning season followed a successful 2004 campaign, during which USC secured the BCS national championship. Notably, Bush’s teammate, Matt Leinart, won the Heisman that year.
After college, Bush’s NFL career did not reach the same heights as his collegiate success. He played for several teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Buffalo Bills. Despite not replicating his college achievements, Bush did win a Super Bowl with the Saints in the 2009 season.
Bush’s reinstatement and the return of his portrait to the Heisman House mark a significant reconciliation, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to college football and his enduring legacy as a Heisman Trophy winner.
