NFL Reveals 2023 Candidates for Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, Presented by Nationwide

Lisa Valadez | 12/5/2023, 10:31 a.m.
The NFL has unveiled the 32 nominees for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.

The NFL has unveiled the 32 nominees for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide. This award recognizes players who excel on the field and demonstrate a commitment to making a positive impact beyond the game. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the significance of these players' contributions, stating, "These 32 outstanding men are making a valuable difference in their communities every day."

The nominees, including prominent names like Patrick Mahomes II and Cooper Kupp, will be honored during the week leading up to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. The winner will be revealed during the nationally televised NFL Honors on Thursday, Feb. 8.

Each nominee champions various off-field initiatives important to them and their communities, ranging from youth empowerment to supporting veterans. Notably, each nominee will receive up to $55,000, and the winner will be granted a $250,000 donation to their chosen charity, courtesy of the NFL Foundation and Nationwide.

Fans can participate in Nationwide's Charity Challenge by voting on social media or NFL.com/ManOfTheYear from Dec. 5 to Jan. 8. The nominee with the most votes will receive an additional $35,000 for their chosen charity.

Ramon Jones, EVP and Chief Marketing Officer for Nationwide, expressed admiration for the nominees' inspiring work, emphasizing Nationwide's pride in supporting these community champions.

Additionally, fans can support their favorite nominee through Alltroo, an online fundraising platform started by former NFL player Kyle Rudolph. Alltroo offers fans the chance to win special prizes while contributing to the nominee's charity of choice.

Since its establishment in 1970, the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award has honored 56 legends and players, recognizing their outstanding contributions to both the game and their communities. This year's nominees will wear a special Man of the Year helmet decal, and select stadiums will feature goal post wraps adorned with the NFL Man of the Year trophy silhouette.