Payton Man Of Year Finalists

By Emari Traffie–2/4/2012
Three out of 32 NFL players have been chosen as finalists for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.
They are Baltimore center Matt Birk, San Diego quarterback Phillip Rivers and Chicago cornerback Charles Tillman.
The award is in memory of Chicago Bears legend Walter Payton. It honors players not just for excellence on the field, but also for community service. A decade ago Ravens center Birk founded his Hike Foundation to help at-risk children in the classroom.
“When they tell you that you are a finalist, one of three finalists for Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year…if you think about it…that title, that’s pretty heavy,” Birk told WEBN.
Birk says he could speak for Rivers and Tillman when he says he wants to use his influence to help people.
Rivers’ foundation is called Rivers of Hope. It provides a positive direction for foster children.
“I have six children of my own, so just knowing the love and the care and the daily needs, the things you provide for your own kids…then to realize there’s kids out there that aren’t getting that, aren’t getting tucked in at night, don’t know what school they are going to the next semester, or the next day, and birthdays are getting missed… it tugs at you,” Rivers told WEBN in Indianapolis.
Tillman has made a lifetime commitment helping chronically ill children through his Cornerstone Foundation. He said he is honored to play for the legendary Payton’s team.
“I know about Walter Payton’s legacy and, to be mentioned in the same sentence as him is…what he has accomplished and what he means to the NFL and Chicago…is extremely humbling,” said Tillman.
“It’s hard to put into words what it’s like to be nominated for an award that has Walter Payton’s name on it,” echoed Birk. “Everybody knows of his legacy on the field, but off the field, I think it’s even more impressive.”
These players may not be contenders in this Super Bowl but according to Rivers, some things are more important.
“First Super Bowl I’ve been to and to be able to come for this reason is certainly… special,” Phillips said.
The winner will be announced Saturday night on NBC at the first NFL Honors award show.