NFL Honors Bobby Wagner with Walter Payton Award

Charity experts praise league's decision to recognize player's community impact.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The National Football League has awarded the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award to Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner. The award honors players for their exceptional community service and philanthropic work off the field.

Why it matters

The NFL's decision to honor a player who did not create a new charity marks a meaningful shift, according to charity experts. The award typically goes to players who have founded their own charitable organizations, but Wagner's consistent community engagement and impact was recognized instead.

The details

Wagner has been a consistent presence in the Seattle community, volunteering his time and resources to support numerous local causes over his 10-year NFL career. He has worked with organizations focused on youth development, social justice, and health and wellness initiatives.

  • The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award was presented to Wagner on February 15, 2026.

The players

Bobby Wagner

A 10-year veteran linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks who has been recognized for his exceptional community service and philanthropic work off the field.

Walter Payton

The legendary Chicago Bears running back for whom the NFL's Man of the Year Award is named, honoring players' off-field community impact.

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The takeaway

The NFL's decision to honor Bobby Wagner with the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award highlights the league's evolving approach to recognizing players' community impact, moving beyond just founding charitable organizations to also celebrating those who consistently give back through various initiatives.