Major Controversies Surrounding Reggie Bush: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Reggie Bush—discover key moments of controversy.

Reggie Bush is a former American football running back, renowned for his college career with the USC Trojans, where he won the 2005 Heisman Trophy and earned All-American honors twice. Drafted second overall by the New Orleans Saints in 2006, he won Super Bowl XLIV with the team in 2010. Bush also played for the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, and San Francisco 49ers before retiring in 2017. He was named an All-Pro punt returner in 2008. After retiring from the NFL, Bush worked as a college football analyst for Fox Sports.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

December 2004: Gifts Received

In December 2004, Reggie Bush received gifts from Lake and Michael, including a limousine ride to the 2005 Heisman Trophy Presentation.

2004: Improper Benefits Allegations

In 2004, allegations that Reggie Bush received improper benefits with USC were central to an NCAA investigation of the USC football program.

2005: Heisman Title Forfeited

In 2005, amid reports, Reggie Bush voluntarily forfeited his title as the 2005 Heisman winner.

2005: Wins Vacated

In 2005, the NCAA forced USC to vacate all of its wins due to violations related to Reggie Bush.

2006: NCAA Investigation

In 2006, reports surfaced raising questions about whether Bush's family received gifts in violation of NCAA policies, leading to an investigation.

November 2007: Lawsuit Filed by Lloyd Lake

In November 2007, sports agent Lloyd Lake sued Reggie Bush and his family to recoup $291,600 in cash and gifts.

April 2009: NCAA Investigation Merged

In April 2009, the Los Angeles Times reported that the NCAA had merged its investigations of Reggie Bush and former USC basketball player O.J. Mayo.

December 28, 2009: Arbitration Bid Lost

On December 28, 2009, Reggie Bush lost his bid for confidential arbitration in the lawsuit filed by Lloyd Lake, and the case proceeded to trial.

February 2010: Essence Cover Controversy

In February 2010, Reggie Bush was featured on the cover of Essence magazine which generated controversy among some readers due to his relationship with Kim Kardashian and criticisms about dating only non-black women.

April 2010: Lawsuit Settled

In April 2010, the lawsuit filed by Lloyd Lake against Reggie Bush was settled.

June 10, 2010: NCAA Sanctions Announced

On June 10, 2010, the NCAA announced major sanctions against USC due to Reggie Bush receiving lavish gifts, including a four-year probation, vacating wins, and a bowl game ban.

July 20, 2010: USC Removes Bush's Honors

On July 20, 2010, USC removed all jerseys and murals displayed in Reggie Bush's honor and returned the school's copy of his Heisman Trophy.

2010: Heisman Trophy Forfeited

In 2010, Reggie Bush voluntarily forfeited his Heisman Trophy amid a scandal, but it was reinstated 14 years later amid NCAA rule changes.

2011: Bowl Ban

In 2011, USC was banned from bowl games because of Reggie Bush's actions.

January 8, 2016: Sued St. Louis Rams

On January 8, 2016, Reggie Bush sued the St. Louis Rams, the St. Louis Regional Convention and Sports Complex Authority, and the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission, claiming a "concrete ring of death" around the field caused his injury.

July 2021: Defamation Lawsuit Filed

In July 2021, the NCAA issued a statement regarding NIL rules.

August 14, 2023: Petition Submitted to NCAA

On August 14, 2023, attorneys representing USC and Reggie Bush submitted a petition to the NCAA Committee on Infractions, asking them to review their 2010 case and reconsider their decision.

September 24, 2024: Sued NCAA and Pac-12

On September 24, 2024, it was reported that Reggie Bush is suing USC, the Pac-12 Conference, and the NCAA for the illegal use of his name, image, and likeness without permission or compensation.