Reggie Bush, a former star running back at USC and the Heisman Trophy winner in 2005, has initiated legal proceedings against USC, the Pac-12, and the NCAA. He is pursuing compensation for the use of his name, image, and likeness (NIL) based on his outstanding performance during his college football career from 2003 to 2005.

In a press release, Bush’s legal representation emphasized that the lawsuit seeks to correct the ongoing injustices linked to the misuse of his NIL rights.

The firm pointed to various revenue sources, such as TV deals and merchandise profits, that benefited from Bush’s achievements on the field. They noted that USC, the Pac-12, and the NCAA have continued to earn from his legacy “without acknowledging his contributions” since he transitioned to the NFL after the 2005 season.

“This lawsuit goes beyond just seeking justice for Reggie Bush; it aims to set a standard for the fair treatment of all student-athletes,” stated Evan Selik, an attorney from McCathern Law. “Our objective is to address this injustice and establish a framework where athletes receive fair recognition and remuneration for their contributions.”

Bush was a prominent figure in modern college football, known for his exciting plays as a running back for USC’s highly ranked teams, which represented the allure of Los Angeles.

During his time with the Trojans, he accumulated 3,169 rushing yards and scored 25 touchdowns, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. Additionally, he recorded 1,301 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. His standout performance in 2005 saw him rush for 1,740 yards, averaging 8.7 yards per carry and scoring 16 rushing touchdowns, along with 478 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.

In 2005, he won the Heisman Trophy, though the award was later vacated in 2010 after USC was penalized by the NCAA due to violations which included Bush receiving unauthorized benefits. Earlier this year, the Heisman Trust reinstated his award, recognizing the significant changes in college football’s landscape.

During Bush’s time at USC, the team achieved a record of 37-2 and clinched two national championships. Following his college career, he played 11 seasons in the NFL, playing for teams such as the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Buffalo Bills. He was part of the Saints’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2010.

Bush’s lawsuit adds to a growing trend of high-profile athletes challenging the NCAA and its conferences over lost NIL revenue due to past regulations that restricted their ability to earn from their identity.

Earlier this month, four former Michigan players, including Denard Robinson and Braylon Edwards, filed a $50 million lawsuit against the NCAA and the Big Ten Network, claiming they were illegally barred from monetizing their NIL rights. In June, a group of 10 members from NC State’s 1983 national championship basketball team also sued the NCAA and the Collegiate Licensing Company over the unauthorized use of their name, image, and likeness.