Sean McVay always says Kyren Williams is made of the right stuff, and the Los Angeles Rams are recognizing him for that in a big way. The NFL announced the 32 nominees for the 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award on Thursday and Williams is the Rams’ selection for the prestigious honor.
This is the first time Williams has been nominated for the award, something he should be incredibly proud of. Last year, Cooper Kupp was nominated and in 2022, it was lineman Tremayne Anchrum Jr. who was selected by the Rams. In 2021, Andrew Whitworth won the award in his final NFL season.
The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award is one of the highest honors in the NFL, going to the player who displays “excellence on and off the field” for their work in the community and commitment to philanthropy.
Williams is outstanding on the field for the Rams, but his work in the community shouldn’t go unnoticed. He was the captain of the United Way of Greater Los Angeles’ WalkUnitedLA this year, he helped raise $750,000 as the captain for the LA Rams Night For Wishes to help kids battling life-threatening medical conditions and led the Rams’ annual “recycling combine,” among many other initiatives.
“It’s an honor to be nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award alongside the many players around the league who are doing meaningful work in their communities,” said Williams. “My community work is never about receiving recognition but about paying forward the support and inspiration that others have given me throughout my life. I cherish the opportunities to put a smile on people’s faces and help families in need. The game of football has provided me with a platform to give back and I believe it’s important to leverage it in ways that serve others.”
Making an impact on the field + in the community. ⭐️
We’re proud to name @Kyrenwilliams23 as our @Nationwide Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee.
🔁 REPOST TO VOTE | #WPMOYChallenge pic.twitter.com/VudWDHaxUE
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) December 5, 2024
Fans can vote for Williams on the NFL’s official website and on social media with the hashtag #WPMOYChallenge. The winner will be announced at the NFL Honors show on Feb. 6, and all 32 nominees will be recognized during Super Bowl week in New Orleans.
Former Rams quarterback Jared Goff was also nominated by the Lions, as was linebacker Bobby Wagner of the Commanders.