Jeffery Simmons Named Titans’ Nominee For Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award For Second Year in a Row
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons has been nominated by his team for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award — marking the second consecutive year he has received the honor.
The award, one of the NFL’s highest individual recognitions, celebrates players who excel not only on the field but also through their impactful community service . Simmons, a two-time Pro Bowler and steadfast team leader, stands out as both a defensive anchor and a community advocate.
A sixth-year veteran from Mississippi State, Simmons has been a force for the Titans since being drafted 19th overall in 2019, consistently delivering double-digit tackles and maintaining his position among the top defensive tackles in the NFL . On the field this season, he has anchored one of the league’s stingiest defenses, helping the Titans limit opponents to an average of merely 269.1 yards per game early in the season .
Yet Simmons’ contributions off the field are equally noteworthy. Through his Give ‘Em a Reason Foundation, launched in 2022, he empowers youth by boosting their self-esteem, rekindling local sports programs, and mentoring young people from similar backgrounds . Among his efforts, Simmons donated $50,000 to revive a youth football and cheerleading league in his hometown, spearheaded the inaugural Jeffery Simmons Youth Football Camp in Starkville, Mississippi, which drew over 500 children, and hosted community events ranging from Thanksgiving turkey deliveries to shopping sprees for underprivileged young athletes .
The NFL Man of the Year accolade extends far beyond philanthropy—it also honors athletic achievement and personal responsibility. Simmons wears a special helmet decal in recognition of his nomination and embodies leadership both as a four-time team captain and role model .
“Being considered for Walter Payton Man of the Year for a second time is truly one of the greatest honors of my career,” Simmons said. “I realize there is more work for me to do in the community and I will continue to make that one of my greatest priorities and passions.”
Each NFL team selects one nominee, all of whom receive a $55,000 donation to their chosen charity. The overall winner, announced during the NFL Honors ceremony ahead of the Super Bowl, earns a $250,000 donation—and an additional $35,000 for winning the fan-driven Charity Challenge .
The NFL released its full 2024 list of nominees on Dec. 5, with Simmons representing Tennessee . The winner will be unveiled Feb. 6, 2025, during NFL Honors, which airs nationally .
As the Titans’ Walter Payton nominee for the second year in a row, Simmons continues to fuse elite athletic performance with meaningful community engagement. His efforts not only elevate his team’s defense but also uplift countless lives in Nashville, Mississippi, and beyond.
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Fast facts:
Name: Jeffery Simmons
Position: Defensive Tackle, Tennessee Titans
Achievements: 2× Pro Bowler, 4× Team Captain
Foundation: Give ‘Em a Reason (est. 2022)
Community highlights: Football camp (500+ youth), $50K to youth leagues, Thanksgiving turkey drive, shopping sprees, hospit
al visits and mentorship .
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