Just over a month ago the NFL announced the 32 nominees for the “league’s most prestigious honor” – the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, given to an NFL players “his excellence on and off the field.”
The award was established in 1970 and eventually renamed after Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton in 1999. Among the 32 finalists for the award is Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
Here’s what the NFL said of Kelce’s service:
The seeds of Kelce’s community impact were planted four years ago when he purchased a vacant muffler shop. His vision was to transform it into a unique incubator for inner-city students, providing them with real-world career experience and life skills. Today, the inaugural class of the “Ignition Lab” at Operation Breakthrough is set to graduate high school, armed with work experience, internships, improved grades, industry skills, credentials, and newfound hope.
Kelce and 87 & Running recognized that lasting impact requires continuous investment. Through his dedication of time, money, and resources, along with the efforts of staff and volunteers, the Lab has thrived from its inaugural class and beyond. The number of students served by the Ignition Lab has grown 350% since its inception and now includes students from seven urban-area high schools.
As the Walter Payton Man of the Year vote rolls on, the NFL announced an update on the leaderboard. It’s no surprise that after becoming the leader in the Pro Bowl vote, Kelce is back at the top of the leaderboard of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award vote as well.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
In an announcement from the league, Kelce leads Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans, Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Dion Dawkins, Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Brandon Graham and Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner, who rounded out the top five.
Kelce and the majority of the Chiefs key starters will be riding the pine this afternoon during a divisional bout against the Denver Broncos after wrapping up the No. 1 seed against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas.
