After 14 years of being stripped of his award, Reggie Bush will have his 2005 Heisman Trophy reinstated. The Heisman Trust’s decision is attributed to significant changes in college football such as the introduction of name, image, and likeness rights. Bush’s reinstatement comes after he lobbied for the return of his trophy and college football records, which were revoked due to NCAA sanctions against USC. While Bush will regain his trophy, USC will only receive a replica for display purposes. The restoration of Bush’s reputation is still pending, as he has filed a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA alleging malicious attacks on his character.
Results for: and Likeness (NIL)
NCAA athletes can now play immediately no matter how many times they transfer, as long as they meet academic requirements. This change comes after the association fast-tracked legislation to fall in line with a recent court order. The Division 1 Board of Directors formally ratified the change to the transfer rule Monday and approved a tweak that allows schools to identify name, image, and likeness opportunities, and facilitate deals between athletes and third parties. Athletes are not obligated to accept assistance from the school and must maintain authority over the terms in their NIL agreements.