NFL Honors: Panthers on both ends of the spectrum
Carolina Panthers players were recognized at the NFL Honors awards ceremony on the eve of the Super Bowl…
The Carolina Panthers enjoyed a good season with double-digit wins and a playoff appearance, their fourth in five seasons. Many players had memorable plays throughout the season, including game winning drives, special teams and defensive touchdowns in addition to other breakout performances but a few were also set to be recognized for accolades both on and off the playing field.
Tight end Greg Olsen was again nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for his efforts in raising awareness and funds through his HEARTest Yard foundation. The second consecutive season in which Olsen has been a finalist after losing last year to co-winners Eli Manning and Larry Fitzgerald.
Against stiff competition this season in Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt who ignited a campaign for hurricane relief efforts in his city after disastrous flooding and Baltimore Ravens tight end Benjamin Watson with his One More Foundation, Olsen wouldn’t capture the trophy.
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Watt, understandably, was recognized as the award recipient but there is no question that all three were deserving and that Olsen will one day bring home the hardware should he continue his career a few more seasons. An NFL rule prohibits the Panthers from nominating Olsen again next season.
Teammate and linebacker Luke Kuechly did leave with a trophy, winning the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award. One player is nominated from each team before a vote of current NFL players is taken to determine the award recipient.
Kuechly was recognized for his commitment to sportsmanship, fair play and showing respect to the game of football and those he plays against. An intense competitor, anyone who has watched just one Panthers game knows that Kuechly is well respected both inside his own locker room and from the players on the opposing sideline.
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On a night where the best of the best were celebrated during the NFL Honors ceremony, having representatives from the Panthers present based on both their performances on and off the field is something for which all fans can be proud.