New York Giants defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson is the team’s nominee for the 2019 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award, which is an annual award given in recognition of outstanding sportsmanship on the playing field.
According to the NFL, the award is presented to the player “who demonstrates the qualities of outstanding sportsmanship on the playing field, including fair play, respect for opponents and integrity in competition.”
Established in 2014, the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award was named to honor the late founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pro Football Hall of Famer, Art Rooney Sr.
Since being established five seasons ago, the award has been presented to Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Oakland Raiders safety Charles Woodson, Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore, Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly and New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees.
“I’ve always looked up to players like that,” Tomlinson said. “Just to be even considered in a category with them is always great. It’s pretty exciting knowing I’m up for an award like that.
“Sportsmanship has always been important just through high school and college, it’s how I’ve always played. I just want to put my hand in the dirt and have fun out there.”
The last five Giants nominees were linebacker Jameel McClain, running back Rashad Jennings, wide receiver Victor Cruz, offensive lineman Justin Pugh and tight end Rhett Ellison.
2019 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award winner will be revealed at the NFL Honors show on Saturday, February 1 on FOX.
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