Celebrating Excellence: Xavier McKinney and Josh Jacobs Honored with 2024 Tom Mulhern Stand-Up Guy Award
A Prestigious Recognition for Packers Players
Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney and running back Josh Jacobs have been named the 2024 recipients of the esteemed Tom Mulhern Stand-Up Guy Award. This accolade, voted on by the Green Bay chapter of the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA), honors players who exemplify professionalism and enhance the relationship between the team and media.
From Alabama to Green Bay: A Journey of Leadership
Both McKinney and Jacobs joined the Packers as unrestricted free agents in March, bringing with them a legacy of leadership from their previous teams—the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders, respectively. Remarkably, their camaraderie dates back to their collegiate days at the University of Alabama, where legendary coach Nick Saban instilled in them the importance of interpersonal communication.
“One thing people don’t know is Saban made every freshman take speech,” Jacobs shared, reflecting on the invaluable lessons from Alabama. “He taught us that win or lose, you’ve got to handle yourself like a professional and respect the jobs of others. That lesson has stuck with me throughout my career.”
A Stellar Debut Season for Green Bay
In their inaugural season with the Packers, both players demonstrated exceptional skill on the field. Jacobs made history by becoming the first Green Bay running back in 21 years to rush for over 1,300 yards in a single season, while McKinney led the team with eight interceptions.
This year marks the first time in the award’s history that two first-year Packers players have been recognized simultaneously, underscoring the profound impact McKinney and Jacobs have had on the team and the media community.
The Art of Professionalism
McKinney emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and communication regardless of circumstances:
“You’re not going to win every game, and there will be ups and downs. No matter what, you’ve got to engage with people and be professional. That’s what this is all about.”
Honoring Tom Mulhern’s Legacy
The Stand-Up Guy Award is named in memory of the late Tom Mulhern, a respected journalist who covered the Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. His dedication to excellence in reporting and his passion for the sport continue to inspire players and writers alike.
A Legacy of Excellence
Over the years, the award has celebrated numerous Packers stars, including current players such as receiver Christian Watson and defensive lineman Kenny Clark, who have upheld the team’s tradition of professionalism and accessibility.
Past Recipients of the Tom Mulhern Stand-Up Guy Award
- 2024: S Xavier McKinney, RB Josh Jacobs
- 2023: RB Aaron Jones, WR Christian Watson
- 2022: DL Kenny Clark (2), CB Rasul Douglas
- 2021: WR Davante Adams (3)
- 2020: WR Davante Adams (2), QB Aaron Rodgers
- 2019: CB Tramon Williams (2), T Bryan Bulaga, K Mason Crosby
- 2017: WR Davante Adams, T David Bakhtiari
- 2016: DB Micah Hyde, G T.J. Lang
- 2014: WR Jordy Nelson, CB Tramon Williams
McKinney and Jacobs’ recognition as the 2024 recipients highlights not only their on-field achievements but also their unwavering commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with the media, embodying the spirit of the award’s namesake.
