Saints' Demario Davis Misses Out on NFL Man of the Year Award

Linebacker has been nominated for the prestigious honor three times since joining the Saints in 2018.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:31pm

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New Orleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis was nominated for the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award, but ultimately fell short in the voting, with the honor going to Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner. Despite the loss, Davis' accomplishments both on the field and in the community remain impressive, as he has been nominated for the award three times since joining the Saints in 2018.

Why it matters

The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award recognizes players who have made significant contributions to their communities, in addition to their on-field performance. While Davis did not win, his continued nomination highlights his dedication to making a positive impact off the field, which is an important part of being a role model for NFL players.

The details

Demario Davis has been with the Saints since 2018 and has been nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award three times (in 2020, 2022, and 2025). On the field, Davis had an outstanding 2025 season, leading the Saints with 143 total tackles, the most of his 14-year career. Off the field, Davis and his wife Tamela founded the Devoted Dreamers Foundation and Academy, which mentors local youth and provides character building.

  • Demario Davis has been nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award three times since joining the Saints in 2018 (in 2020, 2022, and 2025).
  • The 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award was presented during the NFL Honors ceremony on Thursday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Demario Davis

A linebacker for the New Orleans Saints who has been nominated for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award three times since joining the team in 2018.

Bobby Wagner

A linebacker for the Washington Commanders who won the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.

Drew Brees

The only Saints player to be recognized as Walter Payton Man of the Year, winning the award in 2006.

Cameron Jordan

A defensive end for the New Orleans Saints who has also been nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award three times (in 2017, 2021, and 2024).

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The takeaway

While Demario Davis did not win the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award this year, his continued nomination and outstanding contributions to the New Orleans community demonstrate the important role NFL players can play as role models both on and off the field.