Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers nominate Heyward for NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year Award

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward takes questions during the post-game news conference after the Sunday night NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Nov. 26, 2017, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

The Pittsburgh Steelers have nominated Cam Heyward for the league’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.

This is the second time the defensive lineman has been nominated for the award, which recognizes a player’s off-the-field community service.

"I have always prided myself in giving back to the community," said Heyward in a release.

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Every team nominates one player for the award. The league chooses three finalists and the winner is announced the night before the Super Bowl.

Heyward will wear a special decal on his helmet for the rest of the season designating his nomination.

“My parent taught me to give back,” said Heyward. “Whether it was through my dad, donating time, visiting hospitals, or my mom teaching me to give back to the less fortunate.”

On-field contributions are also taken into account for the award, and Heyward currently leads the Steelers with a career-high nine sacks.

“He is the quintessential Steelers player and that honor is well deserved,” coach Mike Tomlin said.