Johnny Manziel Throws a $12 Million Reality Check Amid Boycotting Stance Towards Heisman Ceremony for Reggie Bush

Johnny Manziel, the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner, is advocating for justice regarding Reggie Bush’s 2005 Heisman Trophy. The ex-Texas A&M quarterback has vowed to skip the Heisman Trophy ceremony until the NCAA restores Bush’s honor.

Bush, who excelled in his junior year at USC, clinched the prestigious award with a starry performance. However, he had to surrender it in 2010 due to NCAA findings of improper gifts from an agent. Since then, numerous players have advocated in his favor. Manziel’s recent stance, questioning the NCAA’s actions on X, has notably captured widespread attention.

Johnny Manzeil stands for Bush as Heisman controversy heats up

Manziel stated on X that he won’t participate in the Heisman Trophy ceremony until Bush gets his trophy back. Manziel said Bush losing his award didn’t sit right with his morals and values and that the former USC Trojans star deserved to be on the stage with the others every year.

He even threw a question, “The last two Heisman Trophy winners made a combined 12 million last year, but Reggie can’t get his trophy back?”, implying that current top QBs Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels had several millions-worth recognition coming after their respective Heisman Trophy wins.

Reggie Bush had to return his Heisman Trophy in 2010 because the NCAA found he and his family got illegal benefits while he was at USC. This includes money, trips, and even a house in San Diego. However, in 2021, a Supreme Court ruling said student-athletes could make money from their name, image, and likeness. People hoped this meant Bush would get his trophy back, but the NCAA said the new rules wouldn’t change past penalties. This has sparked many questions as Bush deserves recognition for his achievements without facing this trouble. 

Heisman or not: Was Bush worth the hype?

Bush is often seen as one of the most exciting NFL players ever. In 2005 he rushed for 1,740 yards and 16 touchdowns on 200 carries, with an incredible average of 8.7 yards per carry. He also caught 37 passes for 478 yards and just 2 touchdowns and even ran back a punt for a score.

Read More: “Doesn’t Sit Right With My Morals”: Johnny Manziel Chooses to Forgo Significant Award in Honor of Reggie Bush, Issues Strong Warning to NCAA

As the No. 2 pick in the 2006 NFL draft, he joined the New Orleans Saints, eventually winning a Super Bowl with them and enjoying an impressive 11-year NFL career with several top teams. However, Bush had to surrender his Heisman Trophy five years later, and his efforts to reclaim it have been unsuccessful despite having the support of players like Johnny Manziel. Do you think he deserves it? Share your thoughts with us. 

Read More: When the Heisman Trust Conceded, Leaving the Year Blank for College Football’s Maestro Reggie Bush