Reggie Bush is about to be reunited with what’s rightfully his — the Heisman Trust is scheduled to reinstate the former USC star’s prestigious award on Wednesday … after he was stripped of the honor in 2010.
Bush won the Heisman in 2005 after completing one of the greatest college football seasons ever… but the distinction was stripped from him after a lengthy NCAA investigation determined that his family received improper benefits while he was a member of the Trojans program .
Things have changed drastically in recent years due to the NCAA’s Name, Image and Likeness rules that allow athletes to profit from their name… and because of this, the Trust felt it was time to make things right with Bush.
Bush spoke about the decision with ESPN … saying, “Personally, I am thrilled to reunite with my fellow Heisman winners and be part of the historic legacy of the Heisman Trophy, and I am honored to return to the Heisman family.”
“I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the organization’s values and mission.”
The Trust reached its conclusion after a “deliberative process,” according to the outlet… and cited “fundamental changes in college athletics” as its reasoning for a change of heart.
Trust President Michael Comerford welcomed Reggie back to the Heisman family… adding, “We considered the enormous changes in college athletics over the past few years in deciding that now is the right time to reinstate the trophy to Reggie . We are very happy to welcome you back.”
Bush earned the honor after rushing for 1,740 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground…while adding 478 receiving yards and two scores.
2012 Heisman Winner Johnny Manziel — who has vowed to boycott the annual ceremony in solidarity with Bush — celebrated the news on Wednesday … sharing a photo of the running back with a goat emoji, praising him as one of the best to ever do it.
Not only will Bush get his award back — USC will also have its replica trophy returned to campus.