Well-known for his great off-the-field efforts, the Jets’ defensive lineman was nominated for the award for the second year in a row
One of the most community-oriented New York Jets players is getting yet another chance to win one of the NFL’s most important awards.
On Tuesday, defensive lineman Solomon Thomas was announced as the team’s nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. It is his second consecutive year as a nominee.
The man who always puts others above himself, no matter what.
Our Walter Payton Man Of The Year nominee is @SollyThomas90 🙌 pic.twitter.com/ZcOSdvC47U
— New York Jets (@nyjets) December 5, 2023
Thomas, 28, is one of the most impactful players off the field for the Jets and across the entire NFL.
After the tragic loss of his sister to suicide, the veteran defensive lineman started The Defensive Line with his family to bring more awareness to mental health.
The Defensive Line’s mission, according to Thomas, is to “end the epidemic of youth suicide, especially for young people of color, by transforming the way we connect and communicate about mental health.”
Through his foundation, Thomas has spoken to various groups, such as schools, sports teams, and companies, about the importance of mental health and how to help break the stigma surrounding it.
He has also worked with Dak Prescott and The Faith, Fight, Finish Foundation to expand crisis communication during Suicide Awareness Month.
Outside of The Defensive Line, Thomas has been highly active in helping the community around him. In their announcement of Thomas’s nomination, the Jets mentioned some of the defensive lineman’s other contributions.
“Solomon’s generosity extends beyond partnerships, as seen in his discreet donations to various organizations, including a substantial contribution of $24K to two families affected by a tragic mass shooting in Texas. Hosting four consecutive Youth Football Camps for middle and high school athletes in his hometown, Solomon provides a unique opportunity for young players to learn from elite coaches and players. In the spirit of giving, Solomon donated $5K for Thanksgiving distributions through the Interfaith Food Pantry Network and Athletes Making Progress Together.”
It is awesome to see such a deserving person in Thomas get nominated for the award. Mental health is something that many people refuse to acknowledge until it affects them in harmful ways. By advocating to break the stigma and normalize mental health, Thomas is helping countless people daily.
The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award is highly prestigious, highlighting the impact NFL players can make with their platforms. Considering all the work he dedicates himself to, it is a no-brainer that Thomas is up for this award.
