Former Georgia Bulldog linebacker Roquan Smith and defensive end Jonathan Ledbetter have both been nominated for the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
Roquan Smith is the Baltimore Ravens’ nominee for the award. Jonathan Ledbetter is the Arizona Cardinals’ nominee.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell noted what makes the award so special and coveted.
The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award is the league’s most prestigious honor given annually to the player who best represents the greatness and compassion of Walter Payton on and off the field. These 32 outstanding men are making a valuable difference in their communities every day and we are proud to celebrate their special gifts and humanitarianism.
It is great to see the impact that both Roquan Smith and Jonathan Ledbetter are having in their respective communities. Roquan Smith, who grew up in Macon County, Georgia, is helping educate families, frequently attends youth football camps, honors first responders, and more.
Jonathan Ledbetter has hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for the community, various youth football camps, has his own organization (Led A Better Way), and more.
Difference makers on the field, and in the community. 💛
Meet all 32 nominees for the 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, presented by @Nationwide. #WPMOY pic.twitter.com/wHnN73D5LX
— NFL (@NFL) December 5, 2023
It is good to see former Georgia Bulldogs giving back to their communities.
