The New Orleans Saints announced safety Tyrann Mathieu as their “Man of the Year” and therefore their nominee for the National Football League Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
The award recognizes an NFL player who excels on the field as well as supports the community. It is regarded as one of the most prestigious awards in the league.
Mathieu is a New Orleans native who played high school football at St. Augustine. He went on to star for LSU and established himself as a star member of every secondary he was a part of in the NFL. The Saints signed him in free agency before the 2022 season. He has tallied six interceptions and well over 100 tackles as a Saint in his two seasons.
Off the field, he has the “Tyrann Mathieu Foundation” which aims to help financially challenged youth. He has been an active member of many community efforts. He hosts multiple youth camps and also serves as an ambassador for “Son of a Saint,” which helps fatherless children in the community.
“Tyrann Mathieu represents what it means to be a New Orleans Saint. We are proud to nominate him for this year’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award,” said Saints Owner Gayle Benson.
The winner of the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award will be announced during the NFL Honors show on Thursday, February 8th. All nominees receive up to a $55,000 donation to their cause and the winner will receive a $250,000 donation.
The Saints will be back in action on Sunday inside the Caesars Superdome at noon against the Carolina Panthers.