A consistent off-field contributor for the New York Jets has been nominated for an important award.
On Thursday morning, it was announced that defensive lineman Solomon Thomas was nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
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His foundation, The Defensive Line, had a congratulatory post after the announcement.
“The NY Jets announced that Solomon Thomas is their nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award! We are so incredibly proud of you and are inspired by your commitment and your passion. Congratulations, Solly!”
On the official webpage for the award, the NFL describes it as award that “recognizes an NFL player for his excellence on and off the field. The award was established in 1970. It was renamed in 1999 after the late Hall of Fame Chicago Bears running back, Walter Payton.”
Thomas spoke at practice about being nominated for the award and what it means to him.
“It’s a huge honor. I think it’s one of the highest honors in the league and a huge honor from your team. To be recognized by your team and community for the work that you do means the world. I truly believe that we are here to make a difference, influence other people, and make an impact,” said Thomas.
“I think that being an NFL player, we have a platform like no other that is given to us. To use this platform and take advantage of it has been something that has been instilled in me. To be recognized for it means the world.”
Thomas also spoke about how he views the other players nominated for the award this season.
“I really wish that the NFL would just let all 32 guys win. Every individual does a different job and is amazing. All of these guys impact the community and give back in a tremendous way. Whether it is money donations, time, their foundations, or putting a smile on people’s faces, there are so many guys that make a big difference. I wish every guy could come out winning. They all deserve a trophy, and they all deserve to win.”
Thomas’s work off the field is extremely well known. Through The Defensive Line, Thomas has done tremendous work to help end the youth suicide epidemic in the United States. Between workshops and different programs, he has genuinely impacted others in an incredible way.
Thomas’s work does not stop there, though. Between volunteering at food banks and other various events, the defensive lineman is always giving back to his community and improving the lives of others around him.
The veteran has consistently been nominated for the award throughout previous years. If he wins it this year, it will be very deserving for a player who truly puts his status and platform to good use.
