Former University of Southern California running back, and 2005 Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush is suing the university, the Pac 12 Conference, and the NCAA for rightful compensation over his name, image and likeness during his time in college.
The news comes from Bush’s attorneys when they filed the lawsuit on Sept. 23. “This case is not just about seeking justice for Reggie Bush,” attorney Evan Selik said. “It’s about setting a precedent for the fair treatment of all college athletes. Our goal is to rectify this injustice and pave the way for a system where athletes are rightfully recognized, compensated and treated fairly for their contributions.”
Earlier this year the Heisman Trust announced that Bush would have his Heisman Trophy reinstated after Bush’s forfeit of the award 14 years ago, during a time of “enormous changes in the college football landscape.”
In July 2021, the NCAA allowed college athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that stated the NCAA could not prevent schools from offering benefits to student-athletes. This prompted Bush and his legal team to lobby for the reinstatement of his Heisman Trophy that was taken away in 2010 by the NCAA and the Heisman Trust in an investigation that found he received unlawful benefits during his time as a student at USC.
From 2003 – 2005 Bush was one of the most prominent players in College Football. He accumulated 3,169 rushing yards, 25 rushing touchdowns, 1,301 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns. During his junior year, he ran for 1,740 yards with 16 touchdowns and caught for 478 yards with 2 touchdowns. This campaign allowed him to win the 2005 Heisman Trophy and an appearance in the National Championship.
USC fan Lucas Stewart talked about the situation, saying, “Reggie Bush was such a polarizing figure during his time at USC. I remember watching the 05’ season and the impact he had on the National Runner-Up team and his historical year.”
Reider Walker, a college football fan of over 50 years added, “Reggie Bush was one of the best running backs I’ve seen in college. His athletic ability was amazing to watch. Although he was great, I don’t believe he should be paid since it wasn’t allowed 20 years ago.”
The ruling of this case could lead to a domino-effect of future lawsuits regarding NIL compensation. Former high profile college athletes could seek proper compensation and change the way past NCAA violations are viewed.
