Despite far superior stats, the Steelers’ TJ Watt lost out to Cleveland’s Myles Garrett for NFL Defensive Player of the Year at the NFL Honors last night, but it was still a special night for Steelers, as the most prestigious award, the Walter Payton Man of the Year, went to defensive lineman Cam Heyward.
Heyward was presented the award by Britain’s Prince Harry, and in an emotional, eloquent speech, he evoked the memory of his late father, legendary Pitt and NFL running back “Ironhead” Heyward, and called on fellow NFL players to make a difference in their communities, while pledging to do so himself.
The Ravens’ Lamar Jackson won his second MVP trophy last night. The 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey was named Offensive Player of the Year, the Browns’ Kevin Stefanski Coach of the Year and his quarterback, Joe Flacco is the Comeback Player of the Year. Two Houston Texans won the Rookie of the Year, CJ Stroud on offense and Will Anderson Jr. on defense.
Seven men will be inducted in this year’s Pro Football Hall of Fame class. They are return specialist Devin Hester, defensive ends Julius Peppers and Dwight Freeney, linebacker Patrick Willis and wide receiver Andre Johnson. Also, senior finalists linebacker Randy Gradishar and defensive tackle Steve McMichael were elected.
The Super Bowl on Sunday kicks off at 6:30 PM from Las Vegas. Our Super Bowl coverage begins at 2 for the game between the 49ers and Chiefs on WCCS.
The Steelers have hired former Jets assistant Zach Azzanni as wide receivers coach and former Chargers assistant Tom Arth as quarterbacks coach.
