Calais Campbell chosen as NFL ’ s Walter Payton Man of the Year
Former Jaguars DL Calais Campbell , known to fans as the “ Mayor of Sacksonville ,” a well-deserved recognition for his 31.5 sacks over three years , was recognized at the conclusion of the 2019 season by the NFL for his lifetime of leadership and giving-back to the community .
On February 1 , 2020 , Campbell was named the 2019 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year . The award , which is presented by Nationwide , is considered one of the league ’ s most prestigious honors and recognizes the NFL player that best demonstrates outstanding community service and excellence on the field .
“ Calais Campbell ’ s impact extends far beyond the field , into communities throughout Phoenix , Jacksonville and beyond ,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell . “ During his 12 seasons in the league , he has been a tremendous role model for the youth he serves through his CRC Foundation and is incredibly deserving of the league ’ s most prestigious honor .”
Alongside his mother , Nateal , and seven siblings , Campbell formed the CRC Foundation in 2009 . Named for his late father , Charles , the CRC Foundation is committed to the enhancement of the community through the teaching of critical life skills to young people , transforming them into empowered and self-aware leaders of the future .
“ My goal when I give back is to inspire people , to encourage people to believe that dreams are achievable if you put the work in ,” said Campbell . “ 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 . Even if you can only give five minutes to someone in need , give it to them . That one-onone quality time , that little bit of extra time can make a world of difference . Those five minutes can change a life .”
During his time with the Jaguars , Campbell embraced the Northeast Florida community with enthusiasm . He hosted two editions of Christmas with Calais , a holiday shopping spree for local kids who have completed extra lessons in financial literacy . In June 2019 , he welcomed 250 kids at the Calais Campbell JaxPAL Youth Football and STEM Camp , combining his football acumen and interest in mentoring today ’ s youth through education .
Campbell made semi-weekly visits to Northwestern Middle School as part of his CRC Book Club , fostering a reading-friendly community at an underperforming school in downtown Jacksonville . The Pro Bowl defensive lineman made multiple appearances around Northeast Florida , speaking to students at schools to offer them encouragement and a chance to talk about social justice . He was a regular participant in Jaguars Foundation community events , including base visits during Salute to Service week and Jaguars For a Day programs during training camp .
Campbell sought to elevate his charitable giving and introduced a new initiative for the 2019 NFL season . Campbell ’ s Season of Giving pledged a specific dollar amount to a different local charity each month during the season based on several on-field metrics . In 2019 , Campbell contributed $ 20,000 each to Feeding Northeast Florida ( September ), the Clara White Mission ( October ), Wounded Warrior Project ( November ) and The United Way of Northeast Florida ( December ). Prior to the return to his hometown when the Jaguars faced the Broncos on Sept . 29 , Campbell donated an additional $ 5,000 each to several Denver-based charities .
“ Calais Campbell has a heart as big as his body ,” said Paul Martinez , CEO and president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida . “ He is a true servant and role model to our kids and the community . The kids absolutely love him because he takes the time to listen . He can relate to the challenges our children in north Florida face and is always there when we need him .”