The NFL announced Tuesday the 32 nominees, one from each team, for the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. Defensive tackle Solomon Thomas was named the Jets’ nominee for the second straight year.
From the NFL’s official website: “The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award is granted to the player who demonstrates outstanding contributions to society off-the-field while handling himself in an exemplary fashion in uniform.”
Thomas is co-founder and Board Chair of The Defensive Line, an organization designed to aid in the prevention of youth suicide. He has also taken part in many charitable organizations.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award by the New York Jets for the second consecutive year,” said Thomas. “This recognition goes beyond football, reflecting the impact we can make off the field and impact others’ lives with our platform. It’s a privilege to be a part of this team and have a platform to positively impact others. Thank you to the Jets organization, the Tri-state community, my family, and my teammates for this incredible honor.”
The winner will be announced during NFL Honors on Thursday, February 8, the week before Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. Each nominee will receive up to $55,000 for the charity of their choice and the winner receives an additional $250,000 donation.