Every NFL season, the Walter Payton Man of the Year award is given to the player who made a significant impact on their community through philanthropy and leadership.
Each team has one nominee before one leaguewide winner is ultimately chosen at the NFL Honors in February.
This season, Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield was selected as the team’s nominee. It’s Mayfield’s first time earning the nomination in his career. He would become the second Buccaneer to ever win the award, following Derrick Brooks in 2000.
"Being recognized for this award alongside the best in our league is an extraordinary honor," Mayfield said via Buccaneers.com.
“Our responsibility as professional athletes and NFL players extends far beyond what we do on the field, and it is incredibly humbling to be considered for Walter Payton Man of the Year. I'm grateful for the opportunity to make a difference through this platform and to help others overcome whatever challenges they may be facing.”
Mayfield has made several significant contributions to the local community since becoming the Buccaneers’ quarterback.
After signing with Tampa Bay in 2023, the Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation hosted a “Be the Ball” Topgolf tournament, benefitting youth-service organizations across the Tampa Bay community. The inaugural event has raised almost $600,000 over the last three years.
Another one of the most notable contributions was donating $17,900 to a Florida high school when the team couldn’t afford the necessary equipment to go on with their season. Mayfield paid for the shoulder pads and helmets they needed to make their season happen, and the Space Coast Vipers ended up winning their first ever state title in 2024.
He also partnered with the veteran-led organization Team Rubicon to donate $50,000 toward hurricane relief after Hurricane Helene devastated Florida in 2024.
Earlier this year, the Baker & Emily Mayfield foundation launched a Walk On Scholarship, awarding $10,000 scholarships to walk on student athletes like Mayfield once was.
Mayfield has been an absolute star on the field for the Buccaneers, leading the team to the playoffs in each season with the team and putting up the best statistical seasons of his career. But the real impact has been off the field, where Mayfield has fully embraced the local community and given back where it is needed most.
His excellence both on and off the field makes it clear why he’s quickly become such a fan favorite in Tampa Bay.