The Washington Commanders announced that Bobby Wagner has been selected as the team's nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide. The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award is the league's most prestigious honor, recognizing players who excel on-the-field and demonstrate a steadfast commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the game.
A seasoned NFL veteran and a six-time All-Pro, Bobby's impact transcends the field. He has been an advocate formental health and social justice reform, working with local nonprofits and participating in NFL initiatives like Inspire Change to address these issues and leverage his platform for long-term community change.
He has also served as a passionate advocate for business, venture capital, and entrepreneurship. Bobby has prioritized creating programs, like Tackle Everything Tech Tour, where he emphasizes the importance of building generational wealth to ensure future generations can thrive. Through meaningful mentorship, Bobby has fostered lasting relationships, helping educate and equip young people with the tools and guidance they need to excel both on and off the field.
"I've always felt strongly about the importance of giving back, and I never take for granted the opportunity and resources to contribute to our community in every way I can," said Commander's linebacker Bobby Wagner. "While I normally don't seek recognition for my work, it is truly humbling to have my efforts acknowledged through this prestigious nomination. My goal has always been to inspire others on and off the field through my work and this recognition reminds me of the many people that still inspire me every day."
A leader by example, Wagner encourages his teammates to get involved in charitable efforts and frequently organizes team-wide activities, including volunteering at homeless shelters and hosting holiday events for underserved families. His humility and relentless work ethic inspire those around him, and his passion for giving back has become a cornerstone of his identity both in and out of the locker room.
"I've known Bobby Wagner for 11 years and he is one of the greatest players I've had the privilege to coach," said Commanders Head Coach Dan Quinn. "Despite his excellence on the field, he is an even better man off the field. The impact that he has had on his teammates over the years and the various communities he has served is second to none. Anybody would want to be led by Bobby Wagner. His skill, integrity and character are among the best of the best, and that is what has made him such a special member of our league for well over a decade. His work in the community over the years has been extremely impressive and I can truly say that everybody who Bobby Wagner comes into contact with gets better."
Each nominee will receive up to $55,000 and the award winner will receive up to a $265,000 donation to their charity of choice. All donations are made possible by the NFL Foundation and Nationwide Foundation.
All 32 nominees will be recognized for their achievements during the week leading up to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. The winner of the 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award will be announced during NFL Honors, a primetime awards special to air nationally on FOX and the NFL Network on Thursday, Feb. 6.
Fans are once again encouraged to participate in Nationwide's annual Charity Challenge, a social media and online contest that allows fans to show support for their favorite Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee. Fans can vote on X/Twitter by posting #WPMOYChallenge along with the last name/X handle of their chosen nominee or by voting directly on NFL.com/ManOfTheYear. The nominee who receives the most collective hashtag mentions and online votes will win an additional $35,000 donation from Nationwide to the charity of their choice, with the runner-up receiving $10,000 and the third-place winner receiving $5,000. Charity Challenge voting takes place from Thursday, Dec. 5 to Sunday, Jan. 6.
Beginning Week 14 and continuing through the end of the season, each of this year's nominees, including Wagner, will wear a special Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year helmet decal in recognition of their accomplishments on and off the field.
For more information about the award, please visit NFL.com/ManOfTheYear.
