Jaguars DL ARIK ARMSTEAD appointed 2024 Walter Payton NFL -year man

When Arik Armstead arrived in Duval after nine seasons with San Francisco 49ers, the veteran -defensive Lineman did not leave his altruistic nature.

As a member of Jacksonville Jaguars, Armstead quickly immersed himself as a Samaritan in the community and maintained a steadfast goal of ensuring that all students – regardless of their socio -economic state – have an opportunity to succeed.

The charitable drive and commitment led to Armstead being named Walter Payton NFL NFL on Thursday night Nfl Honor From the Saenger Theater in New Orleans.

“Although I am honored tonight, I do not feel that tonight is about me or our organization,” Armstead said during his acceptance speech. “Tonight is about all of you in this room right here and everyone who looks at home. We are living in a world that is constantly trying to divide us. Whether it is political, economically, racially, sexual orientation, we are constantly shared. But I believe in humanity.

Armstead is the second Jaguar player to won Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, where he joined the former Jag’s standout Calais Campbell, who was honored for the 2019 season.

Like Campbell in front of him, Armstead is a versatile, big -bound defensive Lineman who can bring rage on the field and a passion to give back of it.

Armstead was a WPMOTY -nominated for a fifth straight season – four with the 49s and one in his first season with Jaguars.

Considered the highest honor of the NFL, the NFL Man of the Year debuted in 1970, with the legendary Hall of Fame -Quarterback Johnny Unitas, who collected the recognition. It recognizes an NFL player for his exemplary community service along with his distinction in the field of play. Among the winners were Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Walter Payton in 1977. The award was renamed Payton’s honor in 1999, the same year the honorary race died at 46 due to bile duct cancer.

“To the Payton family, it’s been huge to come to meet you through these years,” Armstead said. “I think the true testimony of Walter’s character is to see his spirit living through yourself until today.”

Each of the 32 nominees received a donation of $ 55,000 in their name for a charity of their designation, while Armstead collected $ 265,000 for his charity.

Armstead, 31, and his wife Melinda established Armstead Academic Project In 2019, focusing on giving students with all socio -economic backgrounds “Direct access to the resources they need to thrive, the Armstead Academic Project provides young positive spaces, tools and academic support to unlock their potential and achieve their goals . ”

After Armstead’s career saw him sign with Jaguars, AAP followed and now supports students in Sacramento, Bay Area and Jacksonville.

In addition to AAP, Armstead participated in Everbank Touchdowns for the Tomorrow program after coming to Jacksonville. The program also focuses on financial literacy. If Hans Onus continues on education, Armstead also lent his time to the nonprofit vicicity in a backpack that provides food on weekends and holidays for children in need.

Jaguars signed Armstead in the hope of strengthening their defense.

However, Armstead joined the Jacksonville community and went on the offensive as it concerns his mission to establish education for all students, regardless of their financial support system.

On Thursday night, Armstead took the endeavor in the middle of the stage as he shone a focus on his case and was celebrated as the Walter Payton man of the year.