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Back in New Jersey where he grew up and played his college football, Logan Ryan is certainly making an impact on the playing field for the New York Giants. But it is away from the playing field where he may be making an even bigger impact.
On Tuesday, it was announced that Ryan is the Giants’ nominee for the 2021 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The former Rutgers football star, now in his second year with the Giants, is having one of the best seasons of any defensive back in the NFL.
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The award “recognizes an NFL player for his excellence on and off the field.” Founded in 1970, it was renamed after Payton 29 years later after the late NFL running back.
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A press release by the Giants highlighted the impact of the team’s nominee for the award:
Ryan’s Monthly Rescue and Ryan’s Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF); Ryan Alternative Solutions Training (RAST); a collaboration with CARE (Community Animal Rescue Effort); joining forces with the Covenant House in Newark to support homeless youth through education, employment and financial literacy; frequently donating to animal shelters; and providing Thanksgiving meals and pet supplies to residents of Camden, N.J.
Ryan was a third round pick of the Patriots in the 2013 NFL draft. The 30-year old defensive back has 50 tackles, two forced fumbles and five passes defended this year.