Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year

Uncommon card · No. 76962

Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year is an award presented annually by the National Football League (NFL) honoring a player's commitment to philanthropy and community impact, as well as his excellence on the field. Prior to 1999, it was called simply the NFL Man of the Year Award. Shortly after Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton died in 1999 (having been the 1977 recipient himself), the award was renamed to honor his legacy as a humanitarian. The NFL Man of the Year trophy was created in 1969 by artist Daniel Bennett Schwartz, depicting an undistinguished caped lineman standing alone on the sidelines, outside of game action. While offensive lineman Steve Wright was used as a model for the sculpture, the trophy has never been intended to specifically resemble anybody, symbolizing that the award is meant to recognize any player. This includes players who may perform in a lower-profile playing position outside the spotlight, and whose humanitarian contributions and efforts are worthy. Each...

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