What Is the Award Patrick Mahomes Has Been Nominated For? The Legacy Behind Walter Payton Man of the Year

The league has announced its 32 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominees. Among them, one is Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. There is no doubt that the reigning MVP is the standout in the NFL, with his thrilling achievements on the gridiron, along with 15 and Mahomies Foundation off the gridiron. Therefore, this time the league has decided to nominate him for the prestigious glory.

Mahomes received his second Super Bowl MVP award last season for his outstanding performance. He also ended the regular season as the MVP, leading the league in both passing touchdowns and passing yards. This four-feat milestone makes him the first player in the history of the league to accomplish all four feats in a single season. Besides that, the QB has also worked a lot for his foundation, helping the youth to continue and grow in their lives. Thus, the QB has been put on the list for the honorable award.

Patrick Mahomes is nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award!

The Walter Payton Award, presented by Nationwide, is highly prestigious and recognizes NFL players who not only perform exceptionally on the field but also show a strong support commitment to making a positive impact beyond the game through community service.

Among the finalists is two-time league MVP Patrick Mahomes. The award that “best represents the greatness and compassion of Walter Payton on and off the field” has been presented annually since 1970 and will be awarded at the “NFL Honors” TV show on February 8.

Besides Mahomes, players like Jonathan Ledbetter, Bradley Bozeman, Justin Jones, Anthony Walker Jr., Saquon Barkley, Solomon Thomas, Jeffery Simmons, and many others representing their own teams have been nominated. Even Mahomes said arch-rival Maxx Crosby is nominated for the award.

Read more: Son of Legendary Chicago Bears Running Back Walter Payton Celebrates His Father on 68th Birth Anniversary

While the prestige and honor of the nomination are visible, the eyes draw to the question of what is the legacy behind this prestigious award.

Who was Walter Payton?

Nicknamed “Sweetness,” Walter Payton is widely considered one of the greatest football players the league has ever witnessed. He was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times and was famous for his running skills. Payton held numerous records, including those for career rushing yards, touchdowns, yards from scrimmage, carriers, and more.

Furthermore, his legacy goes beyond the field as he dedicated himself to helping those in need through his foundation, “THE WALTER & CONNIE PAYTON FOUNDATION” Connie Payton was Walter’s wife, who died in September 2020, 21 years later to her husband’s death.

The Man of the Year Award, established in 1970 and renamed in 1999 in honor of Walter Payton, recognizes NFL players who do well on the field and make a positive impact in their communities, reflecting a character similar to the man after whom this award is named.

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