SEATTLE — As of right now there are three finalists that are in the running for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. They are Houston Texans LB J.J. Watt, Carolina Panthers’ TE Greg Olsen, and last, but not least Baltimore Ravens’ TE Benjamin Watson.
Each of these individuals have done some great things in their respective communities. These individuals are the superheroes to their communities by producing such a positive and impactful role for individuals, in general.
“Greg, Benjamin, and J.J. have changed countless lives with their generosity and commitment to helping others,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. “As remarkable leaders on and off the field, they personify the character of the late Walter Payton. We commend them for using their platforms to leave a positive impact on communities across the country.”
The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the NFL Honors Feb.3, also $500,000 will be donated to the name of the winner. The $500,000 will be split in two ways; $250,000 will be donated to the winner’s choice of charity and $250,000 will be donated to the winner’s name to expand Character Playbook around the globe.
The other two finalists will not be left empty-handed, they will receive a 100,000 donation to their charity of choice, as well as 100,00, to expand Character Playbook.
Outside of the phenomenal efforts that each of these players have done outside of their community, like J.J. Watt helping out victims during the hurricanes with fundraising a campaign and raising $37 million, Greg Olsen starting his own foundation called Receptions for Research that focuses on cancer research and educational programming, and Benjamin Watson with his One More Foundation. His foundation is just blessing people who need help. Watson also joined the fight to end sex trafficking. They are improving the world with being positive and letting people know that character does not hold any price to influence others to be better, do better, and making efforts to change the world.
Despite who will be awarded the title and trophy of the Walter Payton Man of the Year, all of these individuals are class acts and have been making the world a better place.
