Reginald Alfred "Reggie" Bush (born March 2, 1985) is an American former professional football player who primarily played the running back position. He was selected 2nd overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2006 NFL Draft after a collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC) in which he was a consensus All‑American and a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. The Heisman award was later vacated by the NCAA due to rules violations involving impermissible benefits received by Bush and his family.
Early life and education
Bush was born in San Francisco, California, and raised in the Bay Area. He attended Santa Margarita Catholic High School in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, where he was recognized as a standout running back and earned multiple high school All‑American honors.
College career
At USC (2003–2005), Bush contributed to three consecutive national championship seasons (2003, 2004, 2005). He accumulated 4,002 all‑purpose yards, a record at the time for a collegiate player, and was named the Pacific-10 Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2005. His dynamic playmaking earned him the 2005 Heisman Trophy, which was later vacated.
Professional career
- New Orleans Saints (2006–2010): Bush signed a six‑year contract with the Saints. He was used as a versatile offensive weapon and return specialist, contributing to the team's 2009 Super Bowl XLIV victory. He recorded 1,017 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in the 2008 season, his most productive year as a rusher.
- Miami Dolphins (2011–2012): Traded to Miami, Bush served as a hybrid back and returner, posting 1,124 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns over two seasons.
- Detroit Lions (2013): Signed a two‑year contract but was released after one season; he posted 629 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns.
- San Francisco 49ers (2014): Joined the 49ers mid‑season, appearing in three games primarily on special teams.
- Buffalo Bills (2015): Signed a one‑year deal but was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a foot injury; he did not appear in a regular‑season game.
Bush retired from professional football in 2016.
Post‑football activities
Following retirement, Bush has been involved in various business and charitable endeavors, including real estate investment, a sports‑related apparel line, and community outreach programs focused on youth mentorship. He has also made occasional appearances as a football analyst on television and digital media platforms.
Personal life
Bush is married to Lacy Bush (née Wren), a former professional volleyball player. The couple has three children. Bush is also known for his involvement in philanthropic initiatives, notably the Reggie Bush Foundation, which supports education and health programs for underserved youth.
Legacy
Reginald Bush is recognized for his versatility as a running back and return specialist, his contributions to USC's early‑2000s dominance, and his role in the Saints' Super Bowl championship. His career totals include 5,299 rushing yards, 3,361 receiving yards, and 27 total touchdowns in the NFL. The vacated Heisman remains a point of discussion regarding NCAA compliance and athlete compensation.