Tight end Hayden Hurst has been named the Carolina Panthers’ nominee for the 13th annual Salute to Service Award.
The award, which is presented by the NFL’s official Salute to Service partner USAA, annually recognizes a league member who demonstrates an “exemplary commitment” to honoring and supporting the military community.
One of three finalists for last year’s honors, Hayden has worked to combat depression and anxiety—a battle that carries personal meaning to the 30-year-old. His own experience led him to learning about the emotional, mental and psychological challenges faced by both active-duty and veteran service members.
In partnership with the Tog Dogg K9 Foundation, the Hayden Hurst Foundation (HHF) has helped fund the training of service dogs prior to their pairing with veterans. Hurst has also supported Fayetteville’s Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, which addresses the mental health needs of military children.
You can vote for Hurst by visiting NFL.com/SaluteFanVote. Finalists for the Salute to Service Award will be determined in January, with the winner set to be announced at the NFL Honors awards show during the weekend of Super Bowl LVIII.
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