NFL announces Walter Payton Man of Year award nominees

The NFL on Thursday announced the 32 nominees for the Walter Payton Man of Year award.

The award recognizes players' outstanding contributions to the game and to their communities. This year's winner will be announced on Feb. 2. 

"The Man of the Year Award gives us the opportunity to acknowledge 32 exemplary players whose commitment to excellence extends on and off the field," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "This year's nominees have used their platforms to transform communities across the country. We are proud of their work and celebrate their dedication and impact through this award."

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The five current players who have won the award, including Drew Brees, Thomas Davis, Larry Fitzgerald, Eli Manning and J.J. Watt, still wear a Man of the Year patch on their jersey. The 2018 nominees will don a Man of the Year helmet decal beginning Week 14 through the end of the season in recognition of their achievements.

2018 Walter Payton Man of Year award nominees