Jaguars defensive lineman honored with NFL humanitarian award
When Calais Campbell was named the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year on Feb. 1, he edged out nominees from the other 31 league franchises for what is highly regarded as the most prestigious league award, as it recognizes a player for his contributions to society off the field in addition to his play on the gridiron.
Campbell, a Pro Bowl performer this season for Jacksonville, won the award for his many contributions in both Jacksonville and Phoenix, where he spent the first years of his career after being drafted out of Miami.
The 12-year veteran was raised in poverty along with seven siblings before he went on to star for the Hurricanes. His mother, Nateal, and his five brothers and two sisters formed the CRC Foundation, which is named in honor of his father, Charles, who passed away when Campbell was 17 years old.
That foundation, founded in 2009, strives to lift children out of poverty. It does so through teaching critical life skills to young people and transforming them into future leaders.
Campbell also is involved in numerous charitable organizations and endeavors off the field, helping youngsters make their way out of rough circumstances – in very much the same way he and his siblings were able to with the values their father instilled in them.
“My goal when I give back is to inspire people, to encourage people to believe that their dreams are available if you put the work in,” Campbell said in his speech while accepting the award. “Everybody – and I mean everybody – can give back. It doesn’t matter where you are in your life; reach back and help someone. It’s our duty to help our neighbors.”
Those statements perfectly sum up the spirit of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, and Campbell’s play, words and actions truly are a breath of fresh air.
