LAS VEGAS — Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward received the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year award on Thursday night at NFL Honors in Las Vegas.
Prince Harry introduced Heyward at the ceremony, joking about the similarities between rugby and football.
"I really love how you stole rugby from us and you made it your own. Instead of passing it backward, just pass it forwards. Why not wear pads and a helmet? Of course have an offense and defense, that makes sense. And why not take a breather every 15 seconds? And you know what, instead of a 10-month season, let's just make it 18 weeks — genius. All kidding aside, what you guys do on and off the field is truly remarkable. You are role models for millions in the way you carry yourselves and in the way you give back," the Duke of Sussex said in his opening speech.
When Heyward accepted the award, he was shocked to see who had presented it to him.
“Prince freakin’ Harry," a stunned Heyward said. "Man, I'm in shock. That's Prince Harry."
This was the sixth time the Steelers nominated Heyward for the award. He created the Heyward House Foundation which supports several initiatives in the Pittsburgh area.
“I want to say thank you to the Pittsburgh Steelers for giving me this opportunity,” Heyward said. “Mike T (Tomlin), it’s an honor to be coached by you. I couldn’t play for any other coach. To my teammates, I’m thankful to be your teammate.”
The foundation also honors his father, Craig “Ironhead” Heyward, a fullback who played 11 seasons in the NFL. He died in 2006 at 39 of brain cancer.
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