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HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Texans announced their nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. The Texans chose Whitney Mercilus. The award recognizes a player’s outstanding community service activities off the field. It acknowledges excellence on the field as well.

Mercilus started a foundation called WithMerci. The organization focuses on supporting children with disabilities and their families. WithMerci has donated over $325,000 to services that advocate for families of children with disabilities. WithMerci also pushes for academic programs that serve the special needs population.

Mercilus participates in his teammates’ charitable events in addition to his work for WithMerci. He contributes volunteer hours. Moreover, he has made numerous monetary contributions. He gave $20,000 to the Houston Independent School District for special education programs. He donated $65,000 to a school called Smartie Pants Academy. Smartie Pants serves students with special needs. Mercilus also gave $25,000 to American Red Cross after Hurricane Harvey. He uses his voice for TORO Takes the Bull Out of Bullying. TORO teaches elementary school students how to recognize and get rid of bullying in schools. If all of that isn’t enough, he also works with many other organizations.

One of the Finest Houston Texans

Chairman and Chief Operating Officer Cal McNair said that the Texans have “long been appreciative” of Mercilus’s community efforts. McNair called Mercilus the “true embodiment of what it means to be a Houston Texan.”

Mercilus, as a nominee, will wear a helmet decal that proclaims him a Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year through the end of the season. This year, during the weekend leading up to Super Bowl LIII, all 32 team winners will be recognized for their work.

The NFL Foundation, Nationwide, and United Way Worldwide will donate over $500,000 in the name of the winner. $250,000 will go to Character Playbook. This is the NFL and United Way’s digital character education program. An additional $250.000 will go to the charity of the winner’s choice.