Reggie Bush is taking legal action against several organizations he claims failed to acknowledge his contributions when they benefited from his name, image, and likeness (NIL).
According to ESPN, Bush, a former USC running back and 2005 Heisman Trophy winner, announced the lawsuit on Monday against the university, the Pac-12, and the NCAA. His legal team claims the organizations profited significantly from Bush’s popularity through TV contracts, merchandise sales, and media rights — even after he went to the NFL.
“This case is not just about seeking justice for Reggie Bush,” said attorney Evan Selik, per the outlet. “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.”
Bush completed his college football career and entered the NFL draft in 2006, when the New Orleans Saints selected him as the second overall pick. He also played for the Miami Dolphins, the Detroit Lions, and the San Francisco 49ers throughout his career.
Considered one of the greatest college football players of all time, Bush amassed 1,740 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in his junior year at USC, earning him the Heisman.
However, he and USC forfeited the award in 2010 due to NCAA violations related to improper benefits. USC also had to vacate its 2004 national title — marking a historic first for a major college football program — and was stripped of victories from 14 games in which Bush played.
The Heisman Trust reinstated Bush’s award in April of this year. His retired No. 5 jersey, which had been removed following NCAA sanctions, was also returned to display at USC’s home opener this season.
“We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust, said at the time. “We considered the enormous changes in college athletics over the last several years in deciding that now is the right time to reinstate the Trophy for Reggie. We are so happy to welcome him back.”
While the Pac-12 declined to comment on Bush’s lawsuit, USC issued a statement affirming Bush’s status as a valued member of the Trojan Family and expressed support for his efforts to regain his Heisman. “We have not received a copy of the lawsuit so we are unable to address its allegations,” the institution added, per ESPN.
“We appreciate that the new administration at USC is trying to pick up the pieces of the former administrations’ unjust and improper handling of Reggie Bush. However, the delay in fixing this speaks volumes,” said Bush’s attorney Levi G. McCathern, II.
As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Bush earned over $60 million in salary during his time in the NFL, and as of 2024, reportedly has a $25 million net worth.
