Reggie Bush, the famed running back of the University of Southern California, has made headlines again as billboards demanding the return of his Heisman Trophy have emerged across Los Angeles. The message is simple: “Bring Back Reggie’s Heisman.” The billboards have been funded by a local billboard company owner and have caught the attention of football enthusiasts and USC fans alike.
Bush won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2005 during his time at USC, but he was later forced to surrender it after an investigation by the NCAA found that he had received improper benefits. In 2010, he became the first winner in the award’s history to give it back. However, in 2021, after the NCAA allowed college athletes to be compensated for their name, image, and likeness, Bush sought the return of his Heisman Trophy.
The billboards have generated buzz in the LA area, reigniting the conversation around the treatment of college sports stars and student-athlete compensation. While it remains to be seen whether Bush will get his Heisman Trophy back, the campaign has brought attention to the issue and highlighted the ongoing debate around athlete recognition in the NCAA. As more and more athletes fight for their rights, it’s a conversation that’s likely to continue for some time.
