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According to a release from the NFL, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Connor Barwin is one of 32 nominees for the 2014 Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
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"The prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award presented by Nationwide is unique among NFL honors because it is the only award that recognizes a current NFL player for outstanding community service activities as well as excellence on the field. Established in 1970, the award was renamed in 1999 after the late Chicago Bears’ running back Walter Payton, who represented the very best of the NFL as an athlete on the field and as a role-model off of the field."
Barwin's obviously had a great year on the field. He's totaled a career high in sacks with 14.5 and there are still two games remaining.
He's also made a significant impact in the community. Barwin has been heavily involved, along with his Make The World Better foundation, to revitalize a park in South Philadelphia.
The Eagles haven't had a Walter Payton award winner since retired cornerback and current NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent took home the honor in 2002.
Barwin, along with each of the 32 team nominees, will receive a $1,000 donation from the NFL Foundation to the charity of their choice. Three finalists will receive an additional $5,000 donation, and the winner will receive an additional $20,000 donation in his name.
Finalists will be announced in January 2015. The award winner will be announced during the Annual NFL Honors awards show on Jan. 31.