Former NFL Star Reggie Bush Sues USC, Pac-12, And NCAA Over Name, Image, Likeness Exploitation

Former USC running back and NFL star Reggie Bush is suing his alma mater, the Pac-12 Conference, and the NCAA over their use of his name, image, and likeness (NIL) during his college football career.

Bush filed a lawsuit alleging the three organizations were compensated handsomely for using Bush’s “significant popularity” to promote college football and the University of Southern California, ESPN reported. Bush’s legal team at McCathern Law issued a press release on Monday announcing the lawsuit.

“From the moment Reggie Bush joined USC, the NCAA, USC, and the Pac-12 Conference began capitalizing on his significant popularity. Revenue streams including lucrative TV contracts, merchandise sales, and extensive media rights have generated substantial profits for these organizations, all directly linked to Reggie Bush’s prominence,” the law firm said. “Despite this, Reggie Bush has not received any compensation for the use of his name, image, or likeness. Even after Reggie transitioned to his successful NFL career, these entities continued to benefit financially from his reputation without any acknowledgment of his contribution.”

Evan Selik, who works at McCathern Law, said in the press release: “This case is not just about seeking justice for Reggie Bush; 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.”

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Bush won the coveted Heisman Trophy in 2005 but was forced to return it in 2010 due to sanctions imposed on USC, including allegations that Bush had received improper benefits as a student-athlete between 2003 and 2005, The Daily Wire previously reported.

Bush tried to get his Heisman back, and the Heisman Trust said it would return the award if the NCAA would reinstate Bush’s record from his 2005 season, CBS Sports reported. Last year, Bush filed a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA, claiming the organization was wrong to say he had been involved in “pay-for-play arrangements.”

Bush’s Heisman trophy was finally returned to him in April, 14 years after he was first forced to give it up. The stated reason for the return was “fundamental changes in college athletics,” including rules that have allowed for “student athlete compensation,” which has become “an accepted practice and appears here to stay.”

Bush reacted to the return of his trophy by telling ESPN: “Personally, I’m thrilled to reunite with my fellow Heisman winners and be a part of the storied legacy of the Heisman Trophy, and I’m honored to return to the Heisman family. I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization.”

He played 11 seasons in the NFL, including stints with the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Buffalo Bills.