The Oregon Ducks were shining brightly at the 2024 NFL Honors on February 6th, with one of their own standing out for his remarkable contributions on and off the field. Arik Armstead, a former Oregon Duck and a dominant NFL player, was honored with the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. This recognition, one of the highest in the league, highlights an athlete’s excellence both in the game and in their community. For Armstead, it is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his character, commitment, and the meaningful impact he continues to make beyond football.
Receiving the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award holds special significance for Armstead, who views it as a platform to further his mission of empowering others. “This award represents the power of service, the responsibility to uplift others, and the impact we can create through education,” Armstead said in his acceptance speech. Through his work with the Armstead Academic Project, Armstead has focused on providing students with the tools and resources they need to succeed. He sees this award as a reflection of that ongoing effort, but also recognizes that his work is far from finished. “There’s still so much more to do. I’m committed to using my platform to create real change—because the work doesn’t stop here,” Armstead continued.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also offered high praise for Armstead, highlighting his exceptional leadership both on the field and in the community. “Arik’s leadership, dedication to his team, and commitment to his community truly embody Walter Payton’s enduring legacy of excellence on the field and compassion off it,” Goodell stated. “Since joining the league 10 years ago, Arik has made it his mission to empower youth by providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive.” Goodell’s words underscore the profound impact Armstead has had not only as a player but as a role model and advocate for change.
The road to this honor has seen Armstead evolve both professionally and personally. After years of solid performance with the San Francisco 49ers, Armstead entered free agency during the 2024 offseason and signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Even in a new locker room filled with fresh talent, his leadership was immediately felt, proving that his influence extends far beyond his on-field performance.
In addition to the accolades from the NFL, Armstead received heartfelt congratulations from fellow Oregon Ducks legend Joey Harrington. Harrington took to social media to celebrate Armstead’s achievement, but more importantly, he emphasized the value of character. “Character matters. Football is a game that all of us who love the game get very wrapped up in, but what happens off the field is much more impactful than what happens on it,” Harrington shared. His message aligns with Armstead’s own philosophy—that the real work happens through the example set by athletes, and their responsibility to lift others up in their communities.
Armstead’s recognition as the Walter Payton Man of the Year is a powerful reminder of the lasting influence athletes have when they use their platform to do good. Through his work, leadership, and dedication, Arik Armstead continues to embody the true spirit of the NFL’s most esteemed award. His commitment to both his community and his teammates ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come.
