Manziel, who won the Heisman in 2012, took to social media to implore the NCAA to "do the RIGHT thing" with respect to Bush, who won the award in 2005.

In a heartfelt social media post, Manziel expressed his disappointment with the situation, stating, "Doesn't sit right with my morals and values that he can't be on that stage with us every year. Reggie IS the Heisman trophy."

Reggie Bush, the former star running back for USC, had his Heisman Trophy stripped due to a high-profile NCAA investigation that found he and his family members had received impermissible benefits during his time as a Trojan. However, the Heisman Trust has made it clear that they would reinstate Bush's award should the NCAA reinstate his records from the 2005 season.

Bush himself filed a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA last year, disputing claims made by an NCAA spokesperson in 2021 that he was involved in "pay-for-play arrangements."

The criteria set by the Heisman Trust states that recipients of the award must be in compliance with the NCAA student athlete bylaws. At the moment, Bush is no longer recognized as a Heisman recipient under these guidelines, despite his impressive performance in the 2005 season.

Johnny Manziel's decision to boycott the Heisman Trophy ceremony is a personal stance he is taking in solidarity with Reggie Bush, and it reflects his own values and morals. Manziel, who had an 11-year NFL career and is now an analyst with Fox, believes that Bush deserves to regain his place among the Heisman winners.

Bush's statistics from the 2005 season are undeniably impressive, with 1,740 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 37 receptions for 478 yards and two touchdowns. His USC team remained unbeaten until a loss to Texas in the BCS Championship Game.

As the debate surrounding Reggie Bush's Heisman Trophy continues, Johnny Manziel's decision to boycott the ceremony serves as a reminder of the impact and significance of this prestigious award. Whether or not his boycott will sway the NCAA and Heisman Trust remains to be seen, but his support for Bush is a testament to the bond shared among athletes in the sporting community.