The Las Vegas Raiders have announced star defensive end Maxx Crosby as the franchise’s nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. The NFL’s most prestigious honor, it is given to the player who excels both on the field and makes a major positive impact in their community.
Crosby’s impact on the field is well known as he is not only the captain and leader of the Raiders defense. He currently ranks sixth in the NFL in sacks with 11.5 but is second amongst all defensive linemen in total tackles with 66. Additionally, his 15 tackles for loss ranks second in the NFL as well, and his grit and determination were on full display in Week 12 as he willed himself on the field against the Kansas City Chiefs, despite dealing with some serious ailments throughout the week.
But as impressive as his on-field production has been, and the Raiders star has undoubtedly proven himself to be one of the truly elite defensive linemen in the NFL, his work off the field is just as impressive and Crosby is thankful to be up for this honor.
“It is a true honor to be nominated for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award,” said Crosby. “The Raiders have a strong commitment to the community, and I share those values, so I take great pride in being nominated for such a prestigious award. Thank you to the Raiders and congratulations to all the nominees.”
Crosby has long been a supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, fulfilling wishes for numerous children. In particular this year he participated in two Make-A-Wish Gameday experiences for four children giving them and their families an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the Raiders Headquarters and Intermountain Health Performance Center.
Crosby and other Raiders teammates visited Frank Lamping Elementary School during Nevada Reading Week to read books to students and on Global Impact Day he took time to serve 600 youth from local non-profit organizations.
The Raiders star also supported the “It’s A Penalty” campaign which served to raise awareness about resources available to prevent human trafficking. His efforts included a 30-second PSA in collaboration with Raiders President Sandra Douglass Morgan.
Each nominee for the award will receive up to a $55,000 donation, and the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award winner will receive a $250,000 donation to the charity of his choice. All donations are made possible by the NFL Foundation and Nationwide.
