Jason Witten. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
(CBS) Cowboys tight end Jason Witten has been awarded the 2012 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.
The winner was announced Saturday night at the “NFL Honors” ceremony, but it was presented to Witten just before kickoff of Super Bowl XLVII.
Bears cornerback Charles Tillman was a finalist for the prestigious award.
Each year, the NFL awards the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award to a player who exemplifies excellence both on and off the field. The eight-time Pro Bowler is active in several charitable organizations, while serving as the Cowboys’ spokesman for “NFL Play 60.”
“I am extremely flattered to be chosen the 2012 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year from such an esteemed group of nominees,” Witten said in a statement. “I work hard every day not only to be a success on the football field and a credit to my team — but to be a good husband, father, son, grandson, teammate — to be the kind of man that is as respected as Walter Payton was. Like others before me, I have a great opportunity as an NFL player to make a difference in the lives of others.”
